Stuck in Quasi Recovery? How to Move Toward Full Eating Disorder Recovery
Many people in eating disorder recovery reach a point where they feel “better but not fully recovered.” This phase, often called quasi recovery, can be scary, confusing, and frustrating. Understanding what keeps you stuck and how to move forward is key to achieving full recovery.
What Is Quasi Recovery in Eating Disorder Recovery?
Quasi recovery is the stage where you may have made progress—you’re no longer in the most severe parts of the eating disorder—but you still struggle with food, body image, or restrictive behaviors. You might feel “almost there” but find yourself slipping back into old patterns or obsessing over weight, food, or shape. Recognizing this phase is the first step to breaking free.
Why Does Quasi Recovery Feel So Terrifying?
Even though you’re technically “better,” quasi recovery can feel like walking on a tightrope. You’re caught between wanting full recovery and fearing change, weight gain, or letting go of control. This fear is normal, but avoidance often keeps people trapped in the quasi recovery stage. Understanding that fear is part of recovery—not a sign of failure—helps reduce anxiety and build confidence in your next steps.
What Keeps People Stuck in Quasi Recovery?
Several patterns commonly prevent progress:
Avoiding foods that feel “risky”
Obsessing over weight, shape, or calories
Relying on old coping mechanisms for stress or emotions
Waiting to “feel ready” before making changes
These behaviors reinforce the eating disorder mindset, making it hard to fully move forward.
How Do You Move From Quasi Recovery to Full Recovery?
The key is exposure work: gradually facing the fears that hold you back instead of avoiding them. This can include:
Trying foods you’ve been avoiding
Challenging restrictive rules around meals
Tolerating anxiety about your body and weight
Rebuilding trust with your body and mind
Exposure work teaches your brain and body that fear is not dangerous and that you can tolerate uncertainty. Over time, this practice reduces anxiety and allows you to reclaim freedom from obsessive thoughts about food and weight.
Why Full Recovery Is Possible
Even if quasi recovery feels never-ending, full recovery is possible. By understanding the patterns that keep you stuck, practicing exposure to feared foods and situations, and seeking the right support, you can move beyond this stage and finally feel at home in your body. Recovery isn’t just about what you eat—it’s about reclaiming your life, your confidence, and your peace of mind.
If you’re ready to stop feeling “better but not recovered” and take actionable steps toward full recovery, there’s support available. My signature program offers structured guidance, personalized coaching, and practical tools to help you move past quasi recovery and build lasting freedom from your eating disorder.
