How Occupational Therapy Can Support Recovery from Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can have a significant impact on a person’s physical health, emotional well-being, and daily functioning. Whether someone is living with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, or another form of disordered eating, the journey to recovery often requires a holistic and multidisciplinary approach.

As occupational therapists (OTs), we bring a unique perspective to the treatment and recovery process, one that is rooted in supporting individuals to engage in the meaningful activities that give their lives purpose, structure, and joy.

Understanding Eating Disorders from an OT Lens

Eating disorders don’t just affect a person’s relationship with food; they disrupt routines, distort self-image, and interfere with roles such as being a student, friend, parent, or employee. People living with eating disorders often struggle with daily tasks that others may take for granted, such as grocery shopping, preparing meals, or even managing energy to get through the day.

From an OT perspective, these are not just tasks they are essential occupations that support health and identity.

Occupational therapy can play a powerful role in eating disorder recovery. We work alongside other professionals such as psychologists, dietitians, and psychiatrists to support individuals in rebuilding routines, managing anxiety around food, and re-engaging in life.

Some of the ways we support clients include:

1. Meal Preparation and Routine Building

We support individuals to plan, shop for, and prepare meals in a way that feels safe and achievable. For some, this might involve graded exposure to challenging foods or building confidence in cooking for themselves again.

2. Developing Healthy Daily Structure

Many people with eating disorders lose their sense of daily rhythm. We help clients establish sustainable routines that support their energy levels, mental health, and recovery goals.

3. Managing Sensory and Emotional Triggers

For individuals who experience sensory sensitivities or emotional overwhelm around eating, we use sensory strategies and emotional regulation tools to build coping skills in day-to-day settings.

4. Reconnecting with Identity and Purpose

Recovery isn’t just about stopping harmful behaviours—it’s about reconnecting with who you are outside of the eating disorder. We explore meaningful activities, interests, and roles to help individuals rediscover what matters to them.

5. Building Skills for Independent Living

Whether transitioning from inpatient care, a supported setting, or navigating recovery at home, we help individuals build practical skills that promote independence and confidence.

At the heart of occupational therapy is the belief that every person is unique. We tailor our interventions to the individual’s stage of recovery, goals, and readiness. Some days, progress looks like preparing a full meal; other days, it might be getting out of bed and brushing your teeth. All steps matter.

We work gently and collaboratively, using activity as a tool for healing, never as a demand or expectation.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, know that support is available. Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to walk the path alone. Occupational therapy is here to help you rebuild your life, one meaningful step at a time.