Eating Disorders Support Group
Eating disorders are marked by an obsessive need to control the intake and/or purging of food. This community is dedicated to those struggling on the road to recovery. Join to discuss your experience with others and find support. Get advice, ask questions, and meet others who are going through similar struggles.
I haven't b/p'd in almost three years- today, however... I became very stressed and anxious over something and I lost control. I've felt very bad about myself today and my self esteem has been very low recently anyways. When I was triggered today, it was something so small... But apparently it was harder for me to deal with in a healthy way then I would have thought... What other ways do you cope when you want to relapse?
As far as what to do next time I suppose I would address the issue of why your self esteem has been low lately as that is likely why the episode happened. Do you still have supports through therapy or anything like that?
Plus PLEASE tell us how you were successful in going 3 years without b/p??? Would love to hear your recovery story:)))
Kudos to three years behavior free! That is a miracle, I remember when I couldn't go a few hours without engaging in my eating disorder. Regarding your relapse, I find that it starts long before the actual physical relapse occurs... so retrace your steps to where you started hearing the thoughts creep back in that led you to your relapse. In recovery we have lots of tools :) some that have worked for me are:
- sharing my feelings honestly with someone I can trust
- journaling
- reading
- watching a movie
- hanging out with a friend
- going for a mindful walk
- prayer and meditation
- screaming into a pillow
- get dressed up in your favorite outfit, do your hair and makeup
- listening to music, singing, dancing
- go to a meeting
- do some self-care, take a nap or get a massage or your nails done
These all work pretty well for me... try them all until something works for you!