It is not uncommon for individuals who have recovered from an eating disorder to experience feelings of missing the control they felt during the height of their disorder. Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that often involve a sense of control over one's body, food intake, and emotions. During the time of the eating disorder, the person may have felt a false sense of control or coping mechanism through their restrictive or disordered eating behaviors.
When the individual begins the recovery process, they may face various challenges, including the loss of the perceived control they had during their eating disorder. Recovery often involves relinquishing harmful coping mechanisms and finding healthier ways to cope with life's challenges and emotions.
Feeling a sense of loss or nostalgia for that control does not mean the person wants to return to their eating disorder; rather, it may indicate that they are navigating the difficulties of recovery and trying to establish a new and healthier relationship with themselves and food.
It's essential for individuals in recovery to seek support from professionals, such as therapists or counselors experienced in eating disorder recovery, as well as support from friends, family, or support groups. The recovery journey can be challenging, but with the right help and resources, it is possible to develop a healthier relationship with food and find alternative ways to cope with life's stressors.