I. Work with a treatment team consisting of a therapist, nutritionist, physician and otherprofessionals, if at all possible. Also, seeks out some of the many wonderful self help programs available to assist you in recovery.
Treatment by a team of qualified professionals who specialize in the treatment of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and/or compulsive overeating is the best course of action to address and recover from disordered eating.
There are highly regarding organizations that offer referrals to treatment professionals available online and by telephone. Consider contacting the National Eating Disorder Association or the Academy of Eating Disorders for a list of professionals who provide treatment in your area. Also, many anorexia, bulimia and BED sufferers and families find that reviewing the online 'virtual brochures' offered in the Eating Disorder Specialist Library greatly simplifies their search for treatment.
If your access to professional treatment is limited, also seek out support through organizations such as Overeaters Anonymous, Eating Disorders Anonymous, and local church or community groups designed to provide support for sufferers.
II. Develop self acceptance through practicing compassion toward self.
Also, practice kindness toward yourself and offering unconditional self care and self respect. Refuse to allow your self esteem to be determined by outside factors, but rather find your value in the content of your character and by being the uniquely wonderful person God created you to be.
III. Develop a positive and self nurturing internal dialogue.
Our inner dialogue with ourselves is critical to our recovery and general well being. Learn how to recognize ineffective thoughts and replace these with accurate and uplifting thoughts.
IV. Get treatment for co-occurring disorders such as anxiety and depression
Anxiety disorders such as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), generalized anxiety, panic disorder, agoraphobia, separation anxiety and social phobias are often co-occurring issues. Learn about the symptoms, treatment and etiology of anxiety disorders and recognize the importance of treating these disorders with therapy and possibly medication, when prescribed by a medical doctor.
V. Practice mindfulness and living in the moment.
Mindfulness is the practice of becoming more aware of the present moment, rather than dwelling in the past or projecting into the future. Many find mindfulness techniques helpful in recovery.
VI. Listen to and honor your feelings.
Feelings matter. Our emotions give us valuable information about ourselves and our perceptions of the environment. Developing awareness of feelings and developing skills to tolerate uncomfortable feelings often go hand in hand with recovery.
VII. Eat well and listen to your body's hunger and fullness signs.
Nutrition is the fuel for our body. Eating disorders often alter what was once a natural and enjoyable relationship with food and our bodies. Learn more about nutrition, intuitive eating and recovery here.
VII. Accept your genetic makeup and appreciate your body.
Body image is our perception of body, not only its appearance, but its functionality, health and purpose. A positive body image is essential to well being and recovery from anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.
IX. Have a relapse prevention or correction plan.
Learn to recognize the early warning signs of relapse and develop skills and resources to prevent and/or pull oneself out of relapse.
X. Develop faith and trust in God and let go of what you cannot control.
A common trait among sufferers is the obsession with trying to control matters beyond our control. This leads to fear, anxiety and the need to seek comfort inappropriately through disordered eating behaviors.
Faith in a loving, all powerful and just God is the key letting go of the people, places and things that we cannot control. This leads to peace and well-being. The choice is yours alone to make. Go it alone and feel overwhelmed, or open your heart and your mind to God and seek His comfort and guidance in your life.
(Copyright © 2010 Eating Disorder Hope. All Rights Reserved.)
Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC founded Eating Disorder Hope in 2005, driven by a profound desire to help those struggling with anorexia, bulimia and binge-eating disorder. This passion resulted from her own battle with, and recovery from, bulimia. As director, Jacquelyn manages the EDH Corporation and the EDH website. In addition, she also operates a closed private counseling practice.
Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC founded Eating Disorder Hope in 2005, driven by a profound desire to help those struggling with anorexia, bulimia and binge-eating disorder. This passion resulted from her own battle with, and recovery from, bulimia. As director, Jacquelyn manages the EDH Corporation and the EDH website. In addition, she also operates a closed private counseling practice.
The EDH mission is to offer hope, information and resources to those struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and compulsive overeating. The organization began with the help and advice of colleagues, professors, and other professional organizations. EDH was founded in January, 2005.
Jacquelyn has a Bachelor of Science in Human Services degree from The University of Phoenix and a Masters degree in Counseling/Psychology, from Capella University. She has extensive experience in the treatment field including advanced education in psychology, participation and contributions to additional eating disorder groups, symposiums, and professional associations. She is a member of the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), Academy of Eating Disorders (AED), International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals and the Eating Disorders Coalition(EDC).
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