Fear: The Cause of Disordered Eating

What is disordered eating and how is fear at the crux of it all?

Answer: any sort of irregular use of food (excessive or avoidance) to deal with emotions; and is not "classified" as an official eating disorder.

The kicker is that this is where it all starts whether it turns into anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating. Disordered eating is the entry; and fear starts the cycle.

But I'm not Scared!

You might be thinking that you're not scared and that fear has nothing to do with your eating disorder...

But I believe that FEAR may be where it all started.

The need to 'Control'

We all have the instinct and urge to control our own destiny. To be able to create what we want in our lives. When things don't happen that way (body size/shape, job, overpowering parent, etc) our sense of control is lost and fear creeps in.

When someone feels that they no longer have control... they will search to find it somewhere in their life. For some, like me, it was food. For others it may be drugs, alcohol, sex, and other forms of addictive behaviors like being a 'shopaholic'.

The point is that my drug of choice was food. Eating is something that you are totally in charge of (with limitations: third world countries, etc). You choose when and how much you eat.

It is something that you have complete control over.

Facing the Fear

What is there really to be afraid of?

Let me illustrate this with a hunting strategy that lions sometimes use:

• When prey is located; the lions begin placing themselves strategically. The strongest hunters are hidden and wait. While a weak lion, incapable of capturing prey, goes to the opposite side. When the prey sees the older lion, panic arises and they begin to run, unknowingly, towards the strong lions waiting for their meal. The attack ensues and the lions are bountifully fed. If only those animals would have known that the lion they feared was old, toothless, and weak! Facing their fear would have saved their lives.

  So what is there truly to be afraid of? Try facing your fears instead of running.... you'll probably only find and old toothless lion!

  Do not let disordered eating turn into something greater. And if it already has; rest assured you can overcome it!

  But How can I Identify my Fear?

  The best way I found to identify my fears was through journal writing. It may also be helpful to find a therapist that specializes in eating disorders to guide you through. Also make sure that you have signed up to receive my free mini e-course.

  No matter what things or situations you are afraid of.... they don't have to run your life.

  When you begin to realize why you turn to food you won't have to use it to cope (coping with emotions, fears, etc...). You can slowly turn away from disordered eating and take back real control... living your life.

  ---

  Return to Homepage from "Disordered Eating"