Ways to Cope
First of all, if you think you have an eating disorder, the most important thing is to TELL SOMEONE whom you can trust. A lot of people with eating disorders tend to think that their problem isn’t serious or that they aren’t thin enough for the ED to be “real.” This is part of the disorder and something you have to force yourself to disregard. No matter how long it’s been, what you look like, or what Behaviors you’re experiencing, the fact is that you are suffering and you deserve help from a qualified professional.
Assuming that you are already in therapy and have a good support network, here are some lists of things you can do to avoid falling back into Behaviors, followed by some good resource links. (Check out the “resources” page as well.)
Ways to cope (taken from various lists):
— Make some tea.
— Read a comfort book.
— Put on some loud, angry songs and shout out the lyrics.
— Take a nap.
— Write in your journal.
— Take a hot bath or shower.
— Call a friend or your therapist.
— Watch a movie.
— Make a list of what you like about yourself. ONLY positive things!
— Color in a coloring book.
— Pop or stomp on bubble-wrap.
— Take a leisurely walk. Key word: leisurely.
— Punch your pillow / throw soft things at the wall.
— Meditate or light incense.
— Sit down and try to figure out the real reasons why you want to fall back on your Behaviors.
— Write a page-long letter to yourself about how you are a good and worthy person.
— Scream. Loudly.
— Take silly pictures.
— Find someone to hug.
Another great list:
http://galadarling.com/article/50-ways-to-rescue-the-worst-day-ever
Check out joyproject.org and something-fishy.com for a lot more. Also let me know if you have any suggestions and I will add them here!
