Reconceptualization of recovery from anorexia nervosa: Patients’ perspective

Abstract

Outcome research has not found a consistent definition of recovery from anorexia nervosa by consensus of experts, or by empirical validation. Therefore, medical criterion of recovery varies between studies and results are not comparable. This poster refers to a study of 44 participants treated for anorexia nervosa and who believe they have recovered. The purpose of this study is to reconceptualize recovery from patients’ perspective. The Free Association about Recovery – Questionnaire (FAR-Q) is a new tool by which to explore and understand the anorexic's account of recovery. Content analysis reveals four subjective definitions of recovery: (1). Return to the social normality; (2). Cohabit with eating disorder; (3). Self-acceptance; (4). Rebirth. This study assesses patients’ stages of recovery process and gives recommendations to health professionals.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his/her declaration of competing interest.