Eating Disorders: Feeling Better About Yourself

Topic Overview

People who have eating disorders are often very self-critical. Learning to be easier on yourself is essential.

• Pace yourself if you are feeling weak. Everything you do may take more time and effort. Do not expect to do all the things you want to do right away. Choose what is most important and do those things first. Break larger tasks into smaller ones and do what you can.
• Remember that negative thinking-feeling bad about yourself, feeling hopeless, and feeling uncomfortable in your body-is part of your condition. As you work in counseling, you will start to feel better about yourself.
• Remember that it takes time to recover from unhealthy eating habits. Your body needs time to adjust itself. As you begin to eat in a healthier way, you will feel better and have more energy.
• Don't expect too much too soon. Your desire to have all things in order is probably not achievable. It may be hard, but try to accept that it is okay when things are not perfect right away. Try to view your recovery as a "work in progress."
• Spend time with other people. Do things you like to do. If you do not have any hobbies, try something new and see whether you like it. Resist the temptation to give up on something too soon.
• Don't blame yourself for your condition or try to find out why this is happening to you. It's better to work on getting better than to spend time trying to answer questions that may not have answers.
• Cooperate with the health professionals who are working with you. Resist the temptation to reject new ways of looking at yourself and your situation.