Often I get asked if I can make any recommendations on a good book to read that is focused on recovery. There are a lot of great eating disorder books available, many of which are memoirs aimed at inspiring others to walk their own journey to wellness using the memoir as an example. I love reading books on recovery and what it took for the individual to battle their way into a healthier, happier life. That being said, I also find memoirs can sometimes be really triggering for my clients or they can leave a person feeling inspired but without direction. This is the reason why I so love the book 8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder by Carolyn Costin and Gwen Grabb.
This book is a beautiful combination of examples and success stories mixed with actual practical steps that individuals can take. Many of the keys are reflection based exercises where you are asked to take a look at where you have been, where you are and where you want to be but it directs you on how to do this. One of the greatest challenges in recovery is the discrepancy between understanding what needs to be done and how to do it. 8 keys highlights so much of this in a way that promotes growth and self understanding in a helpful way.
There is no one thing that causes or makes someone recover. 8 keys won’t be the answer to recovery but it will add more tools to your toolbox as you go along. If you haven’t picked up the book yet I would highly recommend you do so. I know in my practice many of my clients have found that it has helped them and given them focus as they begin or continue on their path to wellness, however a person defines that.
