For an individual who suffers from an eating disorder such as binge eating it can be debilitating emotionally, physically and spiritually. Many people don’t see the correlation between eating disorders and addiction. The individual stuck in the cycle knows all too well they are caught in an addiction. The eating disorder moves into every area of his or her life. Emotions and poor impulse control play a large role in the day to day activities of a binge eater. Family and friends mean well however, unless they too suffer from an eating disorder they can’t understand what he or she is experiencing.
Human beings have many emotions such as sadness, frustration, anger, stressed, feeling overwhelmed, lonely or isolated, guilt, shame, joy, happiness, peace, love and many more. When an individual uses food as a coping mechanism he or she is shutting themselves off from feelings so they can be numb. Making the decision to get help with eating disorders requires faith, commitment and a willingness to do whatever is necessary to live life free from addiction.
This decision is very powerful and deserves to be praised it takes strength and courage to admit to needing help. Individuals may attempt to go to a therapist for one hour a week and find that the other 23 hours are too hard. Others may decide to an inpatient treatment center to learn about the eating disorder and how to live a life free from Binging. The most effective approach is inpatient treatment allowing the individual the time to learn about how to put new coping mechanisms in place. Food is an energy source not a fix.