Many people who have started to make a recovery from anorexia nervosa, slip back slowly into their old ways. It is usually best to keep a close, but unobtrusive, eye on the sufferer. The last thing you want is to make them more nervous and self-conscious than they already are, but you also need to know if they start to return to old habits in regards to their eating.
Although it may be tempting to think that once the patient is making good progress that this is an end of it and they will be well from now on, it is worth noting that many people who do start make a recovery from anorexia nervosa, can slip back again. But although you may be keeping an eye on them for their own good, do be sure make sure that they don't feel as though they are being watched.
One of the ways that people can maintain progress is by avoiding pro anorexia nervosa web sites. These web sites can actively encourage people to lose dangerous amounts of weight and even though they may seem like familiar and friendly places, it is best to avoid them.
The tendency for people who have had anorexia nervosa and are making a recovery, is to think that they know what is best for them and how much they should be eating. It can be very helpful to have an outside viewpoint on what is best for them and it can also help to keep everything in perspective.
Although it is not always necessary to avoid situations, places and people that are associated with the anorexia nervosa, it can be a good idea to decide on the best way to deal with them, before they encounter them. This way they'll be prepared and less likely to be adversely affected by people and situations that could previously have had a negative effect on their recovery.
One of the easiest, and possibly best, ways to help them to maintain a healthy weight and body image is to look for positives rather than negatives. Look for people who have maintained a sensible weight and appreciate the fact that they look good and their weight is appropriate and healthy. It can also be a good idea to increase their knowledge of anorexia nervosa and its symptoms and effects, so that they are better prepared and more likely to continue with their successes.