You’ve taken the first step, and reached out for help. There is a waiting time to see someone in the program. What do you do now?

Don’t be discouraged because of waitlists. They can often move quickly and know that there are things you can do in the meantime to help yourself.

Be kind to yourself. Take care of yourself in ways that help to make things better, not worse (call a friend, take a warm bath), and try to stay focused on getting help and making changes for a healthier you.

Try working through a few of the worksheets we have provided to identify some thoughts and feelings you may be experiencing. There are also workbooks at Gurze books you can purchase online that may help you get started while waiting for help. This website carries books, resource materials, self-help books and much more for eating disorders.

Try to do a little each day so that you take a small, positive step in the right direction each day. Don’t be surprised if one day you can, one day you can’t-one week you can, the next you can’t. This is a normal part of the recovery process. Two steps forward, one step back. Think of taking baby steps through the process. These thoughts are a few helpful reminders for this often overwhelming and confusing stage.