Integrated enhanced cognitive behaviour therapy (I-CBTE) for the treatment of severe and long-standing eating disorders (SEED). Paper 1: I am no longer a SEED patient

This autobiographical paper recounts the harrowing yet inspiring journey of Lorna Collins, a survivor of severe and enduring anorexia nervosa (SE-AN). Her story begins with a traumatic brain injury at the age of 18, leading to a complex eating disorder that persisted for over two decades. Despite over 30 hospital admissions and various treatment modalities, her condition only worsened, compounded by other mental health challenges. The paper vividly describes these multifaceted struggles, including mistreatment in healthcare, self-harm, and near-death experiences. However, it ultimately culminates in an uplifting story of resilience and recovery, highlighting the pivotal role of integrated cognitive behaviour therapy, artistic expression, and a renewed connection with her family. Collins’ account is not only a personal testimony but also offers critical insights into the shortcomings of traditional eating disorder treatments and the importance of personalised, holistic approaches in mental health care. Lorna’s story brings hope, challenges the concept of SEED and forms part of a growing evidence-base that recovery is possible irrespective of duration or eating disorder severity.