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Disordered eating is so normalized in todaysdiet-culture-steeped world that it can be tough to spot, even in yourself.
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Know that just thinking you might have a problem with food is reason enough to seek help.
Get a clinical assessment.
Anecdotally, I can attest to this.
you’re free to schedule a free clinical assessment with an eating disorder specialist through Project Healhere.
Or you’re free to search for one in your area via online directories.
And a therapist fromNAEDs helplinecan also point you in the right direction.
Many plans cover therapy and dietitian services without one, for example, but some dont.)
Seeking treatment early on is also associated with a better chance of lasting recovery, she adds.
Consider joining a support group that connects you to people with similar identities and challenges.
But thats absolutely not the case.
These behaviors are so prevalentandso underdiagnosed in people outside that narrow stereotype.
This is where virtual support can come in.
NAED also has anupdated listof online and in-person groups across the country.
To put it bluntly: Thats absolutely not true for a lot of people.
Thats where harm reductiontrying to reduce symptoms without necessarily aiming for full recoverycan help.
If youre an adult, these things are all your choice, Dr. Rugless says.
Theres no such thing as involuntary commitment for an eating disorder.
Although recovery can be a long process, know that its worth it.
Even if youre not interested in recovery right now, its possible that will change in the future.
Some people have to get to that point of, Im just tired of doing this.
And even once you do commit to recovery, the process is slow.
The objective doesnt have to be that thoughts about food and weight disappear completely, Knight says.
