We often turn to maladaptive coping behaviors in order to anesthetize painful feelings. That’s where things like drugs, eating disorders, self harm, alcohol, etc. come into play. Feelings can suck, who can blame you for wanting to avoid them? But if you’re ever going to truly live life, you’re going to have to feel. Feeling doesn’t have to be painful. There are a lot of wonderful feelings and emotions, too. But you’ll never get to experience them if you keep avoiding your feelings.
Unfortunately there’s no way around it. In order to heal, you must begin to feel. Since it’s so scary and can be so foreign, don’t feel the need to do it all alone. Therapy, support groups, or journaling (blogging?) are all great ways to begin to get in touch with your feelings.
Ready to give recovery from an eating disorder or disordered eating a shot? In search of an experienced eating disorder registered dietitian nutritionist in the Centerport, New York area or virtually? Send Christina an email to learn more about 1:1 nutrition therapy sessions!