Just Getting Started
Question:
My boyfriend, along with several friends and family members have
decided that I have an eating disorder. I agree that I do not have
a healthy attitude towards food and never have but am not so sure
about the disorder part. My boyfriend is an LSW and gave me a copy
of what the DSM IV says. I do fall into some of the categories for
an eating disorder NOS (restrictive type). I still don't think that
what I eat is bad, though. I maintain a healthy weight (103 - 5'2.5").
My diet consists mainly of fruits and veggies, startches, and low
fat proteins (chicken, fish, turkey). I eat very low fat but I don't
see why that's bad. Can you give me a sense of what some of the
other "warning signs" are. Also, I have agreed to see
a therapist soon about this. I'm a little nervous about what to
expect. Any thoughts?
Answer:
I am glad you will be seeing a therapist to explore your eating
issues and whatever feelings or life dilemmas are associated with
them. The extent to which a particular diagnosis seems to fit you
is not as important as your recognition that your attitude is not
healthy and your willingness to address it.
There is a wonderful website devoted to eating disorders called
Something Fishy. You will find all kinds of excellent information
there including signs and symptoms, what you can do, reaching out
for help, online support, even material for family and friends.
Treating eating problems involves addressing both symptoms and
underlying psychological and interpersonal issues. Initially these
can seem like unrealted subjects but as therapy progresses the connections
between emotional distresses and problematic thoughts and behaviors
becomes more clear. Progress also involves identifiying alternative
responses and practicing new skills for self-care, communication,
stress management and so on.
Therapy is a very personal and individual process. For therapy
to be effective, you need to develop rapport and trust with the
person you are working with and of course this takes time. Feeling
comfortable with a therapist allows you to explore complicated,
delicate and painful feelings. It is important to be as open and
honest as possible, and again this can take time. It also takes
courage and I applaud you for embarking on this journey of self-discovery
and growth.
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