Since the pandemic began, eating disorders have been on the rise and that is heart-wrenching for me to hear. Having suffered from anorexia for 25 years (from my mid-twenties until I was 50), I know the intense grip that this eating disorder can have on a woman’s mind and body. Recovery must take place on two levels—physical and emotional. I have lasting scars from both.

Anorexia is not glamorous: You are always cold, you may grow a fine layer of hair all over your body, you lose your period, your hair starts to fall out, you might have digestive issues, and your bones start to thin, among other possible symptoms.

I’ve had multiple stress fractures due to osteoporosis, and I have gut motility issues due to laxative abuse. The worst—and irreversible—consequence of my protracted and severe course of anorexia is the loss of all my teeth. Teeth are bone and my extreme and prolonged malnutrition wore down the bone until mine started to crumble. I’ve been wearing a full set of dentures since I was 55.

The emotional piece of recovery has been an ongoing struggle. I don’t count calories today, but I........

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