For too many, an eating disorder is a badge of shame, a badge of dishonor, a skeleton in the closet. Too many persons struggle in silence, keeping their troubling relationship with food hidden because they believe that an eating disorder is a sign of personal weakness, or even a sin.
At Thriveworks counseling in Chesterfield, Va., we know the truth about eating disorder. We know that they’re not a sign of personal weakness or failure, and we know that healing is not just an issue of “willpower.” People fall victim to eating disorders for all sorts of reasons and influential factors.
Some factors include:
- Stress
- Poorly perceived body image
- History of abuse
- Feeling of lack of control in life
- Societal pressure to reach unattainable image standards
According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), over 24 million people suffer from an eating disorder of some kind in the U.S., and only 1 in 10 receive proper care and treatment.
Eating disorders can be silent, strangling killers. They take hold and it seems like it’s impossible to break free from their iron grip. Eating disorders don’t own you.
It is possible to break the habits, cycles, and mental guilt. It is possible to get your life back to the way it was before food became the enemy. Food is an important and necessary part of our lives but it doesn’t have to be the end all be all of each day. You can have a positive relationship with food and once you do, you will be amazed at how much better you will be physically and mentally. Even better, you will actually get your life back and be able to focus on the things that matter.
If you are struggling with food, call us. Your family, friends, hobbies, career, body and mind will thank you.
Thriveworks counselors help thousands of clients every year to beat eating disorders and to live a happier, healthier life. We offer convenient appointments and accept most insurance plans. Don’t struggle alone any longer and begin the journey to change. We can’t wait to partner and inspire you through this journey of becoming a better you.
