You’ve made the decision to enter eating disorder treatment — a brave, life-affirming step. But now you’re in the in-between: after the decision, before the first day. It’s a space that can feel disorienting, hopeful, exhausting, or all three at once.
You might feel like you’re waiting for your real healing to begin. And while it’s true that the full support of treatment is just ahead, this part of your journey matters, too.
Here are a few thoughts and tools to help you stay grounded, connected, and focused while you wait.
1. Name what you're feeling — without judgment
This time before eating disorder treatment can bring up a wide range of emotions: fear, relief, second-guessing, anticipation. You may wonder if you’re “sick enough,” if treatment will help, or if you’re making the right choice. These thoughts are natural and not uncommon. They're signs that you're human.
Try jotting down what you’re feeling — not to fix it, but simply to witness it. Journaling, voice notes, or talking it out with a trusted person can help make space for your emotions rather than letting them take over.
2. Practice gentle structure
You don’t have to start “fixing” anything before eating disorder treatment. But establishing some gentle structure in your day can support your sense of stability. That could look like:
- Getting outside once a day, even for five minutes
- Eating meals or snacks at consistent times (whatever that means for you right now)
- Limiting time spent researching recovery or scrolling triggering content
- Creating a small routine for morning or bedtime to help your body know you’re caring for it
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about planting small reminders that you’re worthy of care now, not just when treatment starts.
3. Connect with the part of you that chose recovery
Even if you’re feeling unsure or disconnected right now, there was a moment when you said yes to healing. That part of you still exists and can be nurtured.
You might try writing a letter to your future self in eating disorder treatment. Or gathering a few reminders of why you said yes: a voice memo, a text you sent, a photo that helps you envision a life with more freedom. These can be anchors when the eating disorder voice tries to pull you back.
4. Use the support you have
You don’t have to wait until day one of eating disorder treatment to reach out. You can ask your admissions counselor questions. You can say, “I’m struggling.” You can be real. This space isn’t about proving anything. It’s about being held through uncertainty.
5. Remind yourself: This time has purpose
Waiting for eating disorder treatment to start can feel like limbo. But it’s also a space where you're already beginning the work of recovery.
Your decision matters. Your effort matters. The days between now and your first session are not lost time. They are part of the story you’ll tell later — about the moment you chose to keep going.
You're not alone
We’re honored to be alongside you — even now, before the first eating disorder treatment session. We're looking forward to meeting you and to continue your journey through healing, even when it felt uncertain.
You’ve already started.
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