Recovery from bulimia nervosa isn’t always a straight path. It’s common to experience lapses or relapses along the way.

These setbacks don’t mean failure — they’re opportunities to learn and strengthen your recovery strategies.

Although there isn’t enough clear, solid research on the topic, the available evidence suggests that bulimia relapses are common but treatable. With the right support, you can overcome your relapse.

Recognizing early warning signs and having a plan in place can help you navigate these challenges and continue progressing toward lasting recovery.

Certain thoughts, feelings, or behaviors may signal an increased risk of relapse. Whether you’re personally in bulimia recovery or supporting a loved one who is, being aware of the signs can be helpful.

Common signs of a bulimia relapse can include:

  • Increased preoccupation with food, weight, or body image
  • Skipping meals or adopting restrictive eating habits
  • Avoiding social situations involving food
  • Frequent body checking or weighing
  • Elevated stress, anxiety, or depressive symptoms
  • Withdrawing from support systems or skipping therapy
  • Resuming purging behaviors or excessive exercise
  • Engaging in negative self-talk

These signs don’t guarantee a relapse, but they suggest it’s time to seek guidance from your support network or treatment team.

Some people are more likely to relapse than others. A review found that bulimia relapses were more common among people who had more severe symptoms and co-occurring mental health conditions.

A lapse is a brief return to disordered eating behaviors, such as a single binge or purge episode. It’s a temporary slip, not a full return to old patterns.

A relapse is a sustained return to disordered behaviors and thought patterns, often requiring a reassessment of your treatment plan.

Studies on eating disorders use varying definitions of relapse and recovery. For this reason, it’s not easy to estimate how common lapses or relapses are.

Recognizing a lapse early and addressing it can prevent it from developing into a relapse. Remember, both are common in recovery and can be managed with the right support.

If you find yourself slipping back into old behaviors, there are a couple of things you can do in the moment to help yourself feel better without continuing harmful patterns of behavior.

Try the following:

  • Pause and reflect: Acknowledge what’s happening without judging yourself.
  • Don’t view it as a failure: Relapses are often considered part of the recovery process. A relapse doesn’t erase all the progress you’ve made so far.
  • Reach out: Contact a trusted friend, therapist, or support group member.
  • Revisit your coping strategies: Engage in activities that have helped you manage urges in the past, such as journaling, mindfulness, or physical activity.
  • Read others’ bulimia recovery stories: This can remind you that relapses are common, but temporary setbacks — and that full recovery is possible.
  • Avoid isolation: Stay connected to your support network, even if you feel ashamed or discouraged.

While relapses can be discouraging, they don’t mean you’re “starting at square one.” You’ve shown yourself that recovery is possible — and it’s possible for you to recover again, with the right help.

After a lapse or relapse, it’s essential to treat yourself with compassion.

The following steps can help:

  • Reflect on triggers: Identify what led to the setback and consider how to address these factors in the future.
  • Reinforce your support system: Strengthen connections with those who support your recovery.
  • Recommit to your treatment plan: Reengage with therapy, nutritional counseling, or other components of your recovery strategy.
  • Set realistic goals: Focus on small, achievable steps to rebuild confidence and momentum.
  • Practice self-care: Prioritize activities that promote physical and emotional well-being.

Importantly, you might want to revisit your treatment plan with a healthcare professional. Relapses aren’t always a sign that your treatment plan isn’t working, but depending on your specific circumstances, it might be helpful to change your plan.

Your treatment options for bulimia nervosa include:

  • Another type of therapy: Many types of therapy are effective at treating bulimia, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy.
  • Medication: Certain medications — particularly antidepressants or antiepileptics — can help manage symptoms like depression, anxiety, or impulsivity.
  • Nutritional counseling: Working with a registered dietitian can help you better understand your nutritional needs, aiding in your recovery.

With that said, relapse doesn’t mean you should give up on your current treatment plan. Don’t skip appointments or cut back on your current self-care routine; even if you’re discouraged, it’s important to have some kind of plan in place.

Remember, recovery is a process, and setbacks are part of that journey. Each experience offers an opportunity to learn and grow stronger in your commitment to health.

You’re not alone in your journey to recovery. Numerous resources are available to support you.

These resources are a good place to start:

Experiencing a lapse or relapse during recovery from bulimia nervosa is common. Relapses are not failures.

By recognizing warning signs, seeking support, and recommitting to your recovery plan, you can navigate these challenges and continue moving toward lasting health and well-being.