Please note that this is an Archived article and may contain content that is out of date. The use of she/her/hers pronouns in some articles is not intended to be exclusionary. Eating disorders can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights.

For individuals struggling with Complex and Enduring Anorexia Nervosa, the path to recovery can be intricate and nonlinear. Traditional treatment models that focus solely on full weight restoration or rigid recovery timelines may not always align with the needs of those who have been living with an eating disorder for many years.

It is important to note that eating disorder treatment professionals are moving away from the term Severe and Enduring Anorexia Nervosa (SE-AN). The shift in terminology aims to emphasize that recovery is always possible while still recognizing the long-term nature of the illness for some individuals.

At Center for Change, we recognize that healing looks different for everyone. That’s why we embrace a harm reduction approach—a compassionate, individualized method that prioritizes improving quality of life, reducing medical risks, and fostering autonomy in recovery.

If you or a loved one has been living with anorexia for a long time and feel hesitant about treatment, know that there is hope. Here’s how our harm reduction approach supports those with Complex and Enduring Anorexia on their journey toward healing.

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What Is Harm Reduction in Eating Disorder Treatment?

Harm reduction is a person-centered approach that meets individuals where they are in their recovery process. Instead of enforcing a “one-size-fits-all” treatment plan, harm reduction focuses on:

✅ Minimizing immediate health risks

✅ Improving daily functioning and well-being

✅ Supporting small, sustainable changes over time

✅ Respecting personal autonomy in recovery decisions

For individuals with longstanding anorexia, this approach acknowledges that full recovery may feel overwhelming or even unattainable. Rather than setting unrealistic expectations, we work collaboratively to set achievable goals that improve physical and emotional health at a pace that feels safe.

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How Center for Change Implements Harm Reduction for Complex and Enduring Anorexia

1. Medical Stability Comes First

Many individuals with Complex and Enduring Anorexia face serious medical complications, such as malnutrition, osteoporosis, heart issues, and digestive problems. Our first priority is ensuring medical stabilization through:

· Gentle nutritional support to prevent further deterioration

· Regular medical monitoring to track vitals and organ function

· Electrolyte and hydration management to reduce immediate risks

Rather than pressuring rapid weight gain, we stabilize health first and work toward gradual improvements that feel manageable.

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2. Collaborative Goal-Setting

We understand that traditional recovery goals—such as immediate weight restoration or complete behavioral reversal—can feel unrealistic or even distressing for those with longstanding anorexia. Instead, we work with each patient to set personalized goals that feel achievable, such as:

➡️ Increasing nutritional variety rather than focusing solely on caloric intake

➡️ Introducing gentle movement in a way that supports, rather than harms, the body

➡️ Improving energy levels and daily functioning rather than solely measuring progress by weight

This autonomy-focused approach helps patients feel more in control of their treatment journey, reducing resistance and increasing engagement in care.

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3. Addressing the Emotional and Psychological Aspects

For many with longstanding anorexia, the disorder has become deeply intertwined with identity, trauma, and coping mechanisms. A harm reduction model recognizes that healing extends beyond food and weight—it requires deep emotional work, including:

Trauma-Informed Therapy – Helping patients process past experiences that contribute to disordered eating patterns

Mindfulness and Acceptance-Based Strategies – Teaching self-compassion and distress tolerance

Building a Life Beyond the Eating Disorder – Encouraging purpose, relationships, and personal growth outside of the illness

Rather than pushing for an immediate “fix,” we honor the patient’s lived experience and work to reduce suffering in meaningful ways.

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4. Supporting Long-Term Engagement in Care

One of the challenges for individuals with Complex and Enduring Anorexia is maintaining long-term care. Many have been in and out of treatment multiple times, often feeling like they’ve “failed” recovery. At Center for Change, we aim to break this cycle by creating a sustainable, ongoing support system.

This includes: ✔ Flexible treatment plans that evolve with the patient’s needs

✔ Aftercare and outpatient support to help with transitions after inpatient care

✔ A compassionate, nonjudgmental environment where individuals feel safe returning for help when needed

Rather than an “all or nothing” approach, we celebrate every step forward, no matter how small.

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Hope and Healing at Center for Change

If you or a loved one has been living with Complex and Enduring Anorexia, you are not alone. At Center for Change, we believe that every person—regardless of where they are in their journey—deserves compassionate, individualized care.

Our harm reduction approach ensures that treatment is realistic, sustainable, and rooted in respect for each person’s unique needs.

Healing is not about perfection—it’s about progress. And no step forward is too small.

If you’re ready to explore treatment options in a way that feels safe and supportive, contact us today at 888.224.8250. We’re here for you.