Many individuals with eating disorders do not see a correlation with having an eating disorder and self-sabotaging behaviors. Essentially he or she is self-sabotaging themselves and they do not even know they are engaging in these types of behaviors. To a loved one, friend, coworker or family member it may seem obvious unfortunately, however, he or she is the last to know this is a common defense mechanism.

As an eating disorder develops over time it may not be so difficult to understand how the individual affected with the disease is disassociated with themselves. I refer to it as survival of the fittest. The thoughts that have more power win. Typically this means negative thoughts have more power than positive ones. Why? The person already has a low opinion of themselves so the data that runs through the mind supports that core sense of self.

To better understand what can be done for the one who needs help so desperately, many times people unite and come together to do an informal intervention. In layman’s terms a group of people gather and sit down with the person whom is eating disordered and tells them how much they love and respect him or her, and how much they want to see them get better, and ask them do they want to get better?

It certainly helps to speak to someone who is well versed in the field of eating disorders to gather some data before having this heart to heart. The goal is to help not harm the person more than they are already. Eating disorders increase feelings of shame and guilt that he or she already feels. The goal is to have an eating disorder assessment to determine what level or care he or she needs. Many people find inpatient treatment necessary to deal with eating disorders and to learn new coping skills. Reach out for help today!