Role of spirituality in the recovery of eating disordered women
Date
2002
Authors
Sandy, Kristina Julyanna
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Abstract
This paper explores the role of spirituality in the recovery of eating disordered women. There exists more disordered eating and other food related illness today than ever before in North American culture (Mattelart, 1986). The complexity of food related illnesses and the potential for long-term side effects warrants the attention of the medical community to search for effective ways to treat this illness.
The medical community has approached treating eating disorders from an emotional, physical and intellectual perspective, yet recommending spiritual guidance is not standard practice.
Five women, who have successfully recovered from an eating disorder, were interviewed as to their experiences. The results found that religious and spiritual resources were instrumental in the healing and recovery process of these women (Hardman & Berrett, 1999).
We have only begun to investigate the healing powers of religion and spirituality. More research is needed to explore the role of spirituality in our lives.