What can you do to quieten Ana? She's getting louder and I can't block her out anymore.

[Citylife]

I'm in a real battle with Ed at the minute. She's with me 24/7 no matter what I do she won't shut up. Constantly pushing me to eat less and exercise more. She only gets quieter when I've done what she says. I know this is dangerous and have talked to my counsellor about it. She's given me a few coping tips but I'm really struggling. Any one else got anything they've done that worked for them? Just need her to shut up so I can get some peace.

[sailingsal]

First off stop giving the eating disorder a name and humanising it. Its an illness that we battle to overcome, its not a friend, or a comfort. You have to look on it as you would a physical illness and look to recovery rather than it being your friend!

[crazycrossstitcher]

You've taken the first step in recognising that it is the ED that is controlling your thoughts - and asking for help from the counsellor - I don't know if you've tried - with your counsellor - writing down the amount of exercise and a meal plan - I found that doing this - and keeping a diary recording what actually happened and the feelings helped me - each time the ED spoke I referred back to my agreed plan and almost through it in the EDs face - also having the counsellor to agree the plan made me feel much safer about it being an OK plan. Hope this helps.

[Citylife in reply to crazycrossstitcher]

That sounds like a good idea. I'll discuss it with my counsellor next time I see her. I'm prepared to try anything to help me best Ed. Have had a bit better day, managed to do a bit less exercise even when Ed was telling me I needed to do more. Feel it was a small but significant step. Thanx for your support and advice.

[Theresa4]

Agree with cross stitcher I got my daughter to agree in writing that she would eat certain things next meal...agreeing written plan excellent. Perhaps do it by email with counsellor ir trusted friend so you cant 'lose it'. Good luck!