QuestionQUESTION: Hi Rev.
I've been battling a self esteem issue since ive had a bad case of relationships in past few mnths which may have made me feel not good enough. Prior to that i had made a great new lifestyle change regarding my diet and excersice and was looking and feeling great. Since then ive spiralled downwards (possible turning to food for comfort due to feelings of rejection?) focusing more on food which results in massive binge and purge sessions. I went to docs and got duromine which didnt have much of an effect so just switched over to reductil 2 days ago yet nothing has changed. In my head i still push myself to eat til it hurts. i feel like im at a loss now with on more options. Dont know where to turn or how to change..i really need help.
ANSWER: You're very astute and well informed (psych student?). Binge eating is nearly always the result of underlying emotional issues. We are trying to 'fill a hole' inside, whether from abandonment, neglect or abuse (or any number of other things). In that you eat until it hurts shows that it's not a hunger, but an action.
So you need a new action.
I conquered a lifetime of self-medication with food (whether I was binge eating or anorexic, it was never a normal relationship) by taking up various things that required my concentration and my hands.
I made a quilt one winter. It was the worst thing I've ever seen, but it was (to say the least) artistic.
Sketching with charcoals was fun - and I found out I was not bad.
Painting, both on canvas and on the walls was interesting.
You get the idea. It has to be something more than what you know and are comfortable with. You need a new outlet and a challenge. Something to learn.
Meanwhile, think about this: When you start binge eating, let's say a bag of potato chips, when do you stop?
---- when you get to the last one ----
Same holds true for all the things we binge on right?
So measure out 'servings' - and make them available to yourself ONE at a time. It takes some practice, but CONVINCE yourself that what you have in front of you is all there is. When you get to the last of it, STOP.
I've been able to make one personal sized pack of M&M's last for three days this way!
Also set a rule or two like 'no eating anywhere but in the kitchen and sitting down' - 'no food in the bedroom, ever!'
Another good one is 'no eating in the car'.
These rules help more than you can imagine.
Take a look at my site and let me know if you need anything else. I'll support you all the way on this
www.GetTheReal.info
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: nope, not a pscyh student, just have alot of time to dwell, think and research on my feelings. Thanks for ur advice, im not very creative/artistic and really cant see myself doing something like that but i will keep it in mind and try to give it a go. I was wondering more along the lines of therapy and talking to someone. do you think this could be of benefit in overcoming the bad relationship i have with food in my head? I even thought about hypnotherapy... what are your thoughts?
Much appreciated Reverend!
Ps: thanks 4 ur prompt reply, advice and support. it definatly maakes me feel alot better!
Lisa
Answer Hypnotherapy has its place, but with this, I'd rather pull the roots than just cut the plant you know?
The problem isn't food - food is just the treatment you're giving the problem.
Figuring out what the real problem is, well, yes - this might be something you can uncover through counseling. Ideally with someone experienced with eating disorders (first hand is best, but there are exceptions).
How about looking into support groups (often free)?
Call your local health care facilities, mental health facilities and of course your own doctor for ideas of where to begin.
By the way - we are ALL creative and artistic. Whether it's the ability to write or play music, sing, dance, or work with people - it's there.
You don't have to be GOOD at what you try, you only have to try.
