Eating disorders are very serious illnesses that can result in chronic diseases, bone loss, and even death. While there are quite a few eating disorders, the three most common are anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder. Each of these has its own characteristics, but they all share an unhealthy preoccupation with body weight and shape and food. Eating disorders cause a severe disturbance in a person’s eating behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Negative and self-defeating thoughts and patterns are typically associated with eating disorders and often require the help of a trained professional to overcome. If you’re unsure of what kinds of negative thought patterns are characteristic of eating disorders, keep reading.
1. Perfectionism
Many people suffering from eating disorders have a skewed idea of perfection. They strive for it at all costs no matter how unrealistic it may be. But the truth is that perfectionism is often fueled by a fear of failure. In general, they’re goal-oriented individuals who know how to dedicate themselves to a goal and see it through. While it’s usually a strength to be driven and want to do things the right way, these traits are best applied to healthy activities and goals. Seeking outpatient eating disorder treatment is helpful when attempting to learn how to best apply dedication. Excelling in an eating disorder is not a healthy goal.
2. Punishment
Some people use food as a way of punishing themselves for thoughts, feelings, or actions. The idea behind food as a punishment is the thought that they’re undeserving of enjoying something like food. This can be in response to a variety of stimuli like failing to meet an expectation or goal, doing something inappropriate or wrong, or even eating/overeating. Self-punishment is a dark cycle that is often another form of self-harm. Robbing the body of the essential nutrition and calories it needs to function optimally leads to serious health complications.
3. Emotional Support
Food is such an integral part of any culture, it’s no wonder humans tend to associate emotions with food. Although it’s common for food to bring up emotions, it’s not healthy for food to be the medium for the release or management of emotions. It’s not uncommon for people to restrict food or to binge and purge in response to their emotions. An example would be binge eating and feeling shame about it, then purging to try to rid yourself of the shame. Another example is feeling joy when you’re able to fit into a certain clothing size, and you’re willing to restrict your intake to feel the joy that comes with your target size.
4. Control
Some people suffering from eating disorders enjoy the feeling of control or power they get by controlling their food intake. Those who don’t feel they have much control over other aspects of their life, enjoy finding something they can control. For many, the one thing they can control is what and how much they eat.
One of the basic human needs is food. It’s important to meet your nutritional needs to live a healthier and happier lifestyle. Maintaining a healthy relationship with food isn’t always easy, but it’s worth the effort. Poor nutrition can lead to mental issues, chronic health issues, and a decreased quality of life. If you need help, please reach out to a licensed and trained professional so you can break free from some of these negative thought patterns.
