Coping with Body Changes in Eating Disorder Recovery
Written by CCTC Staff Writer
As someone in recovery from an eating disorder, you may find yourself struggling to come to terms with the changes your body has gone through whether as you begin recovery or due to normal life transitions and aging. It can be difficult to accept and adjust to these changes, but there are things you can do to help you cope. This blog will provide some tips and strategies for managing your emotions around body changes during recovery.
In this blog we will discuss:
Why body changes are difficult
The connection between body change anxiety and diet culture
6 tips for dealing with body changes
Why are body changes so difficult?
Whether or not someone is in recovery from disordered eating, an eating disorder, or body image issues; body changes and aging can feel difficult to come to terms with.
But, it is no secret that body changes can be especially difficult for those in recovery from an eating disorder because the physical changes may bring up intense feelings of shame, guilt, self-criticism. In addition, body image issues are often a large component of one's eating disorder; thus, seeing a new body shape or changes in appearance can be a reminder of how you used to look before recovery, or at a different time in your life where your body felt more ‘acceptable.’
There are also specific moments in one’s life that body changes can be linked to such as being pregnant, becoming a mother, or beginning menopause. These moments can be life altering in other ways beyond body shape, function or appearance potentially causing emotional distress or difficulties. For many, these are the times that one is most vulnerable to relapsing into old eating disorder behaviors to cope with stress, overwhelm or anxiety.
The connection between body changes and diet culture
Diet culture creates a great deal of fear and anxiety around aging and changing bodies and appearances over time. Diet culture makes us feel like we must diet to “fix” our bodies by implying that there is something wrong with how we currently look. This kind of thinking can be incredibly damaging and sets unrealistic expectations for what our bodies should look like.
This often creates a cycle of restrictive eating, guilt and shame because no matter how much we diet and exercise, our bodies will still fluctuate and change over time.
Additionally, this kind of thinking is rooted in the idea that our worth is dependent on how we look; perpetuating the belief that physical appearance should be a priority. Diet culture pressures us to focus on fixing our bodies instead of embracing them as they are.
6 tips to deal with body changes in eating disorder recovery
1. Talk to a therapist or nutritionist about your body changes and how it makes you feel
Talking to a therapist or nutritionist about your body changes in recovery can be helpful because these professionals understand the physical and emotional complexities of eating disorders. They are well-equipped to provide support and guidance on how to manage the emotions you may feel around body change during recovery. Having someone to talk to who understands the difficulties of recovery can be an invaluable resource when dealing with body changes.
2. Remind yourself that aging is a part of life and that your body should be celebrated as it changes and evolves
It can be beneficial to make a list of all the things you appreciate about yourself and your body in order to counter any negative thoughts or feelings that may arise around body change during recovery. Find strength in knowing that you are still beautiful, no matter what.
3. Participate in enjoyable physical activities, such as walking or yoga, to help you connect with your body.
Engaging in physical activities that you enjoy can be a great way to connect with your body and improve body image. Participating in movement that is enjoyable helps create a positive relationship with your body and gives you a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, it can help reduce stress and provide an opportunity for self-care. When done mindfully, it can help you to focus on the sensation of movement and bring about a sense of calming and grounding that can be very beneficial for your overall body image.
4. Explain why grieving the loss of your body is important and an okay process to go through.
Grieving your changing body shape is an important process to go through. Eating disorders can have a huge impact on our physical appearance, so it’s normal to feel some sadness or disappointment when things don’t quite look like they used to. Allow yourself time and space to feel these emotions and practice self-compassion. Remind yourself that the journey of recovery is worth it and that you are worthy of love.
5. Take steps to set boundaries with people who may be critical of your body or recovery.
It is important to set boundaries with people who are critical of your body or recovery. This can help protect you from stress and negative self-talk. When you feel able to, communicate openly and honestly about your feelings so that the other person understands why their criticism isn’t helpful or productive. If necessary, it can also be helpful to distance yourself from these people or limit the amount of time spent with them. By creating clear boundaries, you can create a safe space for yourself and your recovery process.
6. Seek additional support if needed
Whether you have been in solid recovery for a year or 20 years - difficult feelings about your body can make you vulnerable to old behaviors and thoughts. Reaching out for additional support or treatment does not mean you have failed or are weak, it is a sign of strength to recognize you need extra support to continue finding peace with your body and food.
Central Coast Treatment Center offers compassionate care and support for individuals suffering from eating disorders, as well as those looking to improve their body image. Learn more about our treatment programs and reach out to us today.