Eating Disorder Mindset
Eating disorders are often fueled by an unhealthy internal dialogue within the individual struggling with anorexia,bulimia, binge eating disorder or compulsive overeating.
Is the glass empty or half full? We all recognize this age-old question that helps determine whether an individual has a positive or negative outlook on life. Today, health professionals are realizing how incredibly important a positive outlook really is. Wise people are known to say that life is comprised of 10% experience and 90% attitude. In other words, the way a person views the triumphs, and especially the tragedies, in their lives will profoundly impact their overall happiness and mental health.
Researchers have analyzed the neuro pathways found in the brain with some interesting results. Evidently, these pathways become highly entrenched; this means that a person's thoughts automatically follow in the same pattern, time after time. It's like a default on a computer; if a person tends to be highly negative or pessimistic, then that will be their default response in most situations.
But here's the good news: these pathways, with effort, can be altered. Imagine placing a hose at the top of a hill and turning it on. The water trickles down the hill, creating a pathway. Leave the hose on and the trench may deepen and widen, but basically remains the same. Now, place a brick in the middle of the stream; the water will run off on either side and begin creating new pathways. That is how it works in the brain, only not with water, but with choosing to think positively instead of negatively.
In eating disorder treatment, outpatient and residential, this thought restructuring skill is often taught through cognitive behavior therapy.
Remember...Behaving in a positive or negative fashion is a choice. What's more, it is possible to change your personal default, which may improve your life, health, longevity and relationships.
Discover more about the causes and treatment of eating disorders by visiting our Library of Articles regarding anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and compulsive overeating.
Articles
Eating Disorder Recovery and Overcoming Negative Thoughts
@ Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC
Eating disorder treatment and recovery requires a paradigm shift in thinking. If one chooses recovery, then one must begin to examine their internal dialogue and irrational conclusions about themselves and life, in general. Anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and compulsive overeating are often signs of a troubled internal relationship with oneself. Understanding the importance of the messages we give ourselves leads many to desire a more positive internal dialogue... Read More
Disordered Beliefs
by Rader Programs
Eating disordered individuals often adhere to distorted beliefs that are a direct result of their eating disorder. Most people with eating disorders like Anorexia, Bulimia or Compulsive Overeating view their bodies inaccurately, placing inordinate value on appearance. Some examples include thoughts such as " If only I was thinner, then I would be happy" or " If I ate what I wanted to eat, I would become huge". These distorted beliefs become a source of emotional discomfort and can cause other related problems for individuals suffering from anorexia, bulimia and compulsive eating.... Read More
Cognitive Behavior Therapy in the Post Hospitalization Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa
By : Kathleen M. Pike, Ph.D., B. Timothy Walsh, M.D., Kelly Vitousek, Ph.D., G. Terence Wilson, Ph.D., and Joy Bauer, M.S., R.D.
Technical, but interesting study by top doctors on the use of cognitive behavior therapy in the treatment of anorexia.. Read More
Resources
Mindset and Disordered Eating: Excellent resource for understanding and changing ineffective mindsets that foster eating disorders(Cci.health.wa.gov.au)
Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Eating Disorders: Irrational beliefs and thoughts often underly eating disordered behaviors. Learn about ways to correct these irrational thoughts(Cognitivetherapynyc.com)
Women Who Have Overcome Eating Disorders: These women have changed their eating disordered mindset and developed happy and fullfilling lives(Eatingdisorderhope.com)
Changing Poor Body Image: Messages we give ourselves about our bodies and appearance can hinder or move us toward recovery. What do you choose?(Vanderbilt.edu)
