Short reflection: Does binge eating need “managing” forever?
Reading time: 1.5 mins
Originally shared as part of Inbox Reflections - my honest, heartfelt emails to support your binge eating recovery as a highly sensitive woman.
Whilst out walking with a friend recently, we found ourselves talking about the various challenges we’ve each faced over the years, and they asked me this question;
“Is binge eating something you’ll have to manage for the rest of your life?”
I thought what I shared with them might also be insightful for you, so here’s the paraphrased version…
🦋 I feel like the way I view myself and the world has shifted so dramatically, it’s unlikely I’d develop a binge eating disorder again.
🦋 I’m aware of the kinds of things that could trigger me to restrict food again but I definitely don’t need to “manage” those triggers day to day.
(For example, I mentioned how working in an office surrounded by constant dieting talk and body criticism would have really gotten to me in the past, but I don’t think it would now.)
🦋 If any of those old triggers were set off, I’m confident I’d notice quickly and respond before things escalated.
🦋 What feels more likely is that I might turn to food for comfort in the short term if something truly tragic happened (hopefully it doesn’t). But again, I trust that wouldn’t snowball into anything more.
So, no - I don’t believe binge eating is something I need to “manage” forever.
But I do think that having self-awareness, staying connected to my needs, and honouring my sensitivity will always serve me well.
If you’re also on this path, I think it’s likely you’ll find this too.
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