By Anna Scott (Clinical Support Worker)
Eating disorders can often feel like they are completely overwhelming your life. And yet, somehow, it is a common experience for those with eating disorders to believe that they are not struggling enough to get support. Some people’s eating disorders like to tell them that other people may be able to recover, but that they never will; that they are the exception to the rule.
If you are struggling with your eating, then you are struggling enough to deserve support, even if you don’t feel ‘ill enough’. If you are consumed by your thoughts of food, exercise or weight, then you deserve to feel better. And not only that, but it’s actually possible.
At Harmless, we know that a lot of people who struggle with disordered eating also struggle with self harm and thoughts of suicide. All of these things can be incredibly lonely. It can feel like all of these struggles are hidden from the world around you.
Some things that can be true for both self harm and eating disorders:
- They are often a symptom of dealing with trauma or other difficult emotions
- They are a means to help you survive
- They cause harm
- They internalise pain
- They act as a means of communication
- They can contain addictive behaviours
- There are feelings of shame
- There is secrecy around behaviours
- They are often misunderstood in society
- Every individual who deals with them is different
- They can change over time
- People who have them deserve support from the first signs of struggle
- It is possible to recover
Being alone in managing an eating disorder can cause an extreme feeling of disconnection. Similarly, some people who use self harm to cope can feel like no one understands. Your internal world and your external world can look so very different. It can really make a difference to bring those thoughts and behaviours to light with another person. The very simple (but sometimes really difficult) step of bringing someone else in can be revolutionary. Perhaps there is a friend or family member who you would feel able to share with.
Beyond our own social circles, there are also some fantastic organisations who can offer support…
Beat Eating Disorders can be accessed nationally for more information and support.
If you live in Nottinghamshire, you can get support for eating disorders with the following services:
If you are affected by self harm, you can make a referral to Harmless here.
