Myth: An Eating Disorder is just about food!
In fact, eating disorders are NOT just about food. They are often a way to cope with difficult problems or regain a sense of control that can be influenced by our family, environment, relationships, school/career and the media. Overall, eating disorders can impact an individual’s sense of identity, self-worth and self-esteem. There are 3 main types of eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. Symptoms are understood through 3 categories including, but not limited to: Behavioural (constant or repetitive dieting, binge eating, vomiting, overuse of laxatives, excessive or compulsive exercise patterns, changes in food habits), Physical (sudden or rapid weight loss, fainting, fatigue) and Psychological (fear of gaining weight, low self-esteem, feel like life is out of control, depression, anxiety). It is important to note that eating disorders are experienced individually and no one eating disorder is exactly the same as the other. Speaking to a clinician about you or a loved one can help individuals work through problems and develop healthier coping skills to manage problems in the future. Early intervention is vital in promoting a successful recovery.
Speaking to a clinician at CFS about you or a loved one’s eating disorder can help individuals work through problems and develop healthier coping skills to manage problems in the future. Early intervention is vital in promoting a successful recovery.
Most people’s thoughts and feelings about themselves fluctuate somewhat based on their daily experiences. Your self-esteem, however, is something more fundamental than the normal ups and downs associated with situational changes. For people with good self-esteem, normal ups and downs may lead to temporary fluctuations in how they feel about themselves, but only to a limited extent.
Self-esteem Characteristics
Low self-esteem refers to a negative perception of one’s worth. It is often characterized by a lack of confidence, negative thinking, difficulty making decisions and communicating one’s needs effectively. A person’s sense of self-worth influences one’s ability to face new challenges. Those with low self-esteem often experience anxiety and self-criticism that can lead to negative thinking, a lack of satisfying relationships, and reluctance to pursue future goals.
It is important to realize that self-esteem is not etched in stone and it can change for the better! Self-esteem builds on itself- success nourishes your self-esteem, which motivates you to take on other goals or projects that in turn will increase your feeling of competence and personal pride. Self-esteem can help us get through difficult times and tackle obstacles.
You may feel you need some help to start seeing yourself in a more positive light. Coming to counselling and speaking with a clinician can help you down the path of rebuilding your self-esteem!
You may feel you need some help to start seeing yourself in a more positive light. Coming to counselling and speaking with a clinician can help you down the path of rebuilding your self esteem!