Lack of control
A lack of control is what fuels BED. Binges feel like they control you and your eating habits –maybe your entire life. You might feel beholden to binges and unsure how to live without them if you’ve been struggling for a long time. This sense of being stuck is what keeps many people from recovery, but have faith that it is always possible.
Fear of food
When you feel uncontrollable around certain foods, you can begin to fear those foods. This can create a harmful dynamic where some foods trigger you either to binge or avoid them altogether. This fear of food can lead to cycles of avoidance and bingeing, which are exhausting and frustrating. It can feel like you’ll never eat “normally” again – but again, recovery is possible.
Sense of isolation
These harmful habits can cause you to withdraw from social life. You might fear an event setting off a binge if you don’t trust yourself to eat mindfully. This isolation can exacerbate symptoms, creating a painful cycle. Your dietitian can help you navigate these mental blocks to enable you to socialize and connect with others once again.
Uncertainty around recovery
It might feel like recovery isn’t possible for you. It might feel unfathomable that you can break free from this cycle. But everyone with BED can recover and everyone is worthy of recovery. Believing recovery is possible is just as important as putting in the work to improve your eating habits.