Anorexia nervosa, in simple terms, is self-starvation. However, it is a complex problem with intricate roots; and, recovery is best accomplished with a grasp of sound information, specific tasks, and the support of others. All of that is provided in this guidebook, which includes:

• Answers to questions most often asked
• Insight from recovered and recovering
• Monika Ostroff's story of recovery
• Specific things to do that have worked
• Information on healthy eating and weight
• Suggestions for how to stay committed
• A special section for parents & loved ones

CONTENTS:

1 - Questions Most Often Asked
         What is anorexia nervosa?
         Who gets anorexia?
         Why do people become anorexic?
         How do I know if I have an eating disorder?
         What thoughts and feelings are associated with it?
         What role does exercise play?
         Is anorexia related to sexual trauma?
         What special issues are faced by males?
         How does anorexia affect relationships?
         Do people recover from anorexia?
         How long does it take to get better?
         Can medication help in recovery?
         Will I need professional help?
         When is hospitalization necessary?

2 - Monika’s Story

3 - Where to Start
         Choose Life
         Willingness and Courage
         Listen to Your Inner Voice

4 - Get Support
         Professional Help: The Treatment Team
         Family and Loved Ones
         Other Support

5 - What Has Worked for Many
         Get to Know Yourself
         Journal Writing
         Identify Goals
         Challenge Your Cultural Influences
         Have Compassion
         Change Your Mind
         Feel Your Feelings
         Be Gentle with Your Pain
         Body Image Work
         Relaxation
         Strengthen Your Boundaries
         Cultivate Healthy Relationships
         Spiritual Pursuits
         Let Go
         Express Yourself
         Focus on Recovery

6 - Healthy Weight and Healthy Weight
         Set Point and Metabolism
         Healthy Eating: Where to Begin
         Getting Past Food Fears

7 - How to Stay Committed
         Ambivalence
         Slips and Setbacks
         Relapse
         Holding onto Hope

8 - A Guide for Parents and Loved Ones

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

Lindsey Hall, CEDS is an internationally respected author of several books on eating disorders and recovery topics, including the bestseller, Bulimia: A Guide to Recovery. She has spoken throughout the United States at eating disorders conferences, universities, and public programs.

Monika Ostroff, MSW, LICSW is a therapist, author and consultant specializing in eating disorders. The former Program Director of Hampstead Hospital’s Eating Disorder Treatment Center, she is currently in private practice in Exeter, NH. Among her credits, Monika is a contributing author to Self-Harm Behavior and Eating Disorders 2004 (Taylor and Francis) and co-author of Anorexia Nervosa: A Guide to Recovery, 1999 (Gürze Books). Monika has been active in the field of eating disorders for the past seventeen years. She has appeared on several radio and television broadcasts including the Vatican Radio’s Generation Jubilee, NPR’s Public Affair and Boston’s WGBH Arts and Ideas.

REVIEWS:

"This is the best book I have read on recovering from anorexia nervosa. Combining 'the facts' personal experience and compassion, this immensely practical book is a must-read for people with anorexia and their loved ones."
—Russell Marx, M.D.

"This inspired, compassionate book will be a tremendous resource to persons whose lives are, or have been affected by anorexia. With a refreshingly appropriate balance of anecdotal material and research evidence, the authors portray recovery from anorexia for what it is. This is a book that I will refer others to with professional and personal confidence."
—Lori M. Irving, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, Psychology, Washington State University Book Review Editor, Eating Disorders: The Journal of Treatment and Prevention

"With the glut of books written about anorexia nervosa, this guide is a welcome change, written for and to the anorexic herself. It speaks directly to the patient answering her questions, providing examples of recovery, and gently walking her through exercises and techniques she can do at her own pace. Every therapist should lead his or her clients to it."
— Carolyn Costin, MA, M.Ed., MFCC founder, director of Monte Nido (treatment facility), Malibu, CA

Click here to read an Excerpt of Anorexia Nervosa: A Guide to Recovery