New England Counseling and Consulting
Serving Teens and Adults in CT and MA
Myths About Eating Disorders
Setting the record straight
HEALTH
Liz Clarkin, LICSW
9/1/20242 min read
There are many misconceptions about eating disorders and disordered eating. Let's set the record straight:
Myth: Eating disorders are a choice.
Reality: Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.
Myth: Only underweight people have eating disorders.
Reality: Eating disorders affect people of all body sizes. Many individuals with eating disorders are at a "normal" weight or higher.
Myth: Eating disorders are just about vanity.
Reality: Eating disorders are often coping mechanisms for deeper emotional issues and have little to do with vanity.
Myth: You can't have an eating disorder if you eat regular meals.
Reality: Many people with eating disorders eat regular meals but struggle with their relationship with food in other ways.
Myth: Eating disorders only affect young women.
Reality: Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or background.
Myth: Recovery means never struggling with food again.
Reality: Recovery is a journey. It's about developing a healthier relationship with food and your body, not achieving perfection.
How We Can Help
Our team of specialized therapists is uniquely qualified to support you on your journey to a healthier relationship with food and your body:
Specialized Training: Our therapists have advanced training in eating disorder treatment, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).
Holistic Approach: We understand that disordered eating is about more than just food. We address the underlying emotional, psychological, and social factors contributing to your struggles.
Body-Positive Framework: Our approach is grounded in Health at Every Size (HAES) principles, focusing on health-promoting behaviors rather than weight loss.
Trauma-Informed Care: Many of our therapists are trained in trauma-informed care, recognizing the role that past experiences can play in disordered eating.
Our goal is to help you:
Develop a more peaceful relationship with food
Improve body image and self-esteem
Learn healthy coping mechanisms for difficult emotions
Address underlying issues contributing to disordered eating
Cultivate self-compassion and reduce negative self-talk
Rediscover joy and purpose beyond food and body concerns
Remember, seeking help is a courageous step. You don't have to face this alone. We're here to support you every step of the way on your journey to recovery and self-discovery. Reach out today for support!
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New England Counseling and Consulting
11 Melanie Lane, Colchester, CT (mailing address only)
Call or Text Liz, our Office Manager: (508) 784-6425
Email Office: Counseling@NewEnglandCC.org