I binge eat and follow with exercise

by Amanda H
(Orlando, Fl)

I feel like the most disgusting human being in the entire world. When I am alone, I binge like crazy, and then I feel awful and follow with excessive exercising until I feel better.

I am obsessed with not gaining weight so I don't understand why I can handle the amount I eat! I just want to feel healthy and light and not stuff myself like I do, and punish myself right away...

ANSWER

I remember doing the exact things you are right now. I felt the same way: disgusting... I literally felt so worthless that I was questioning the point of living.

Just know that you are in a cycle that is feeding into itself. Binging and feeling horrible and then "fixing" it with exercise is something I used to do.

The thing you need to know is that you can break this cycle.

1st: Recognize the problem.

You have already begun this; after all you did reach out for help. Just be careful that you don't beat yourself up about it. Just notice where you are at right now and move forward. Feeling guilty and upset with yourself will backfire into a binge (at least it always did for me).

2nd: Take small action steps.

You will not wake up tomorrow morning and be "fixed". But you can take small action steps that will lead to healing.

Try setting aside some time to relax. You can do this by deep breathing, mediation or something of that nature. Whatever relaxes you.

3rd: Start Journal-ling.

Whenever you notice the idea of binging come on; pull out some paper and pen.

• Just start writing.


• Write what is bothering you.


• What you were thinking about just prior to wanting to binge.


• Ideas, thoughts, anything!

Overall just remember that there is a bigger reason behind binging. Sometimes it is buried rather deep. Be patient and loving with yourself. As long as you keep at it; you WILL overcome binge eating.

All my Best,

Stefanie