For most people the eating disorder recovery process takes years.  There's not quick fix to this complex illness.  This is hard to accept in a world where we are incredibly efficient at almost everything we do.  And especially difficult for those with eating disorders who are accustomed to being high achievers in most areas of their life.  They figure, "I can do this quicker than most people."  Unfortunately this isn't true.  Recovery requires slowing down and being present for the journey. 

Because the process is so long and draining it can be frustrating at times.  The ups and downs feel like a rollercoaster ride.  And sometimes I have clients who want to bail.  I encourage them to keep going, one moment, one day at a time.  Like the good ol' Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said "If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."