Eating Disorders: Feeling Better About Yourself

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Topic Overview

People who have eating disorders are often very self-critical. Learning to be easier on yourself is essential.

Pace yourself if you are feeling weak. Everything you do may take more time and effort. Do not expect to do all the things you want to do right away. Choose what is most important and do those things first. Break larger tasks into smaller ones and do what you can.
Remember that negative thinking-feeling bad about yourself, feeling hopeless, and thinking you are unattractive-is part of your condition. As you work in counseling, you will start to feel better about yourself.
Remember that it takes time to recover from unhealthy eating habits. Your body needs time to adjust itself. As you begin to eat in a healthier way, you will feel better and have more energy.
Don't expect too much too soon. Your desire to have all things in order is probably not achievable. Learn to accept your good qualities.
Spend time with other people. Do things you like to do. If you do not have any hobbies, try something new and see whether you like it. Resist the temptation to give up on something too soon.
Don't blame yourself for your condition or try to find out why this is happening to you. It's better to work on getting better than to spend time trying to answer questions that may not have answers.
Cooperate with the health professionals who are working with you. Resist the temptation to reject new ways of looking at yourself and your situation.
Learn to accept help.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: September 29, 2009

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.