It’s not easy to ask for eating disorder help. It’s hard just to admit and accept that you have an eating disorder. Reaching out and asking for help for eating disorders is even harder. Many of us feel that this is our problem and we should deal with it on our own. People with eating disorders are often very independent and are not used to sharing their feelings with anyone, especially not a therapist. They may feel too ashamed or embarrassed to reveal to someone what they are doing. Please know that there is no shame in having an eating disorder or seeking eating disorder help. I tried for many years to keep this a secret and I tried to stop on my own. It did not work. This problem is too big to correct on your own and you need the help of qualified individuals.
Most of the time, people that need help for eating disorders need a variety of services to aid in their recovery. Beneficial services often include medical care, psychiatric care and medication, individual and group therapy, family therapy, nutritional counseling and education, and support groups. Some people with eating disorders suffer from other disorders at the same time, like depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, or alcoholism. In those cases, treatment for co-existing conditions should be provided along with eating disorder help. Inpatient treatment may be needed initially to provide intensive medical and psychiatric treatment.
It is important that you find treatments and sources of support that are helpful for you. Many people will try to tell you what you “have” to do in order to recover, but only you know what methods of treatment are best for you. What works for one person may not work for another. Do not be afraid to tell people what you want and need.
At the same time, realize that people with eating disorders often have inaccurate ideas about food and eating and exercise. Find professionals you trust to educate you about these things. Understand that changing long-held beliefs and behaviors often feels uncomfortable, so don’t abandon treatment just because it doesn’t feel comfortable all the time.
Recovery is a long road. Remember, you do not have to travel that road alone. It really is important to reach out for help for eating disorders. There is no shame in having an eating disorder and help is available. You do not have to be a prisoner to your eating disorder forever. Not only is it okay to ask for help, it is necessary. On the left are some sections that I hope will be of help to you or to a loved one as you begin getting the help needed to assist you in your recovery.
An Addiction Rehab in Lake Arrowhead California, Above It All offers the highest standards in care. Follow the link to learn more.
Written by: Colleen Thompson
Resources:
-Surviving an Eating Disorder: Perspectives and Strategies for Family and Friends by Michelle Siegel, Ph.D., Judith Brisman, Ph.D., and Margot Weinshel, Ph.D. – Harper & Row Publishers, NY
-Special thanks to Pete and Deb Cozza for “Shattered Dreams”.