People suffering from binge eating disorder commonly deal with feelings of anxiety, shame, and guilt because of body image issues. These emotions are easier to manage when you get proper help. Whether you’re only starting your journey to recovery or if you’re halfway done with your binge eating treatment plan, it’s understandable if you’re losing focus because of the coronavirus outbreak.
The global health crisis is a legitimate reason to feel heightened stress and anxiety. If you’re struggling with binge eating disorder recovery in the middle of the pandemic, keep in mind that there are healthy ways for you to cope. Take control of the situation with the help of these suggestions.
Be More Self-Aware about Symptoms
The journey to recovery starts differently for every patient. Some people realize that they have an eating disorder on their own. Others are encouraged by concerned loved ones to see a specialist before they understand exactly what they need help with. Now that stay-at-home orders are clearing up schedules and putting physical distance between loved ones, you have to pay more attention to rising symptoms.
Take note of these emotional and behavioral changes that might be hindering your treatment:
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Trying Out New Food or Fad Diets
Many people are exploring their hobbies and learning new things during this period of physical distancing and quarantine. Some people even sign up for free online courses now that they have more time to do so. But learning something new is different from trying new diets. A shift to a no-carbs, no-dairy, or no-meat diet might be a warning sign of a relapse.
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Hoarding at the Supermarket
We don’t know how much longer the situation is going to remain like this. But while the medical field is working hard to contain the virus, the best you can do is to keep your house well-stocked with essentials. Be careful not to hoard certain food products while you’re in the supermarket, though. This might give way to another cycle of binge eating and purging.
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Avoiding Social Interaction
Even though the stay-at-home orders and quarantine periods are keeping loved ones physically away from each other, technology provides a way to keep people connected. It’s okay to want some time for yourself amidst the outbreak-related stress but assess the situation. Intentionally distancing yourself from family and friends might not be healthy for you.
- Being Extremely Self-Conscious
People on the internet don’t usually mean any harm when they make jokes about coming out of this pandemic with bigger bodies. Nevertheless, statements like these might feel like a heavy blow on you and others who are also struggling with eating disorders. Limit social media time to avoid seeing posts like that, and to prevent body image issues from resurfacing.
If you catch yourself doing any of these, get in touch with your recovery team right away.
Find a New Hobby and Explore Your Interests
One of the leading causes of binge eating disorder is stress. And at times like these when stress is unavoidable, it sounds so easy to eat your problems away. This just puts a dent on your recovery plan.
Take control of your situation by diverting your attention and energy on other matters. Find a hobby that is equally engaging and productive, like gardening or taking online courses. Haven’t had time to get started on that passion project you’ve always wanted to do? Now’s the time to explore that passion.
Finally, remember that there are always people who want to help you. Your loved ones and therapists want to see you recover. If you need help with it during the pandemic, please reach out to someone today.
