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1.Set reasonable goals - "Reasonable" is the operative word
here, because it means working within a framework of success rather than failure. From this perspective, positive thoughts
replace negative ones, setback binges become opportunities to better understand the compulsion, and successes can be rewarded
with encouragement, confidence and tangible results, no matter how small of a goal is reached.
2. Get support - Although
the struggle to overcome bulimia is much easier with outside support, most bulimics are embarrassed by the truth and afraid
to confide in others. But one issue driving bulimic behavior is a fear of relationships, which ultimately has to be overcome!
Choose your confidantes carefully. Find a therapist you trust, talk to the family member you feel would best handle this type
of problem, or get in touch with someone who is already well along the road to recovery
3. Look beyond the symptoms
- Obviously, the immediate symptoms of bulimia revolve around food, but bingeing and purging, planning meals, counting calories,
and other habitual behaviors are ways of coping with other underlying problems in your life. It is these hidden problems,
of which you many not even be aware, that are "fueling" your eating disorder and that you will need to explore in order to
be completely free. In this way, your bulimia can be a teacher, because every time you revert to it is an opportunity to learn
more about the hidden truth.
4. Write regularly in a journal - Writing is a form of intimacy because it necessitates
having an honest, caring relationship with yourself. A journal can reveal patterns that you might need to challenge, be used
to chart your long-term progress, or help you problem solve. A journal is like having a best friend who will always be there
for you and value what you have to say. It is also an excellent way to take quiet time and also explore the issues that come
up when that time is taken.
5. Express yourself - Most experts agree that an eating disorder is a way to say something
using the body that cannot be said in words. For instance, expressing anger by stuffing food and violent purging may be easier
than confronting someone who has hurt us. I have one friend who uses her anorexia as a way of saying "no" to social activities,
but "no" is an acceptable answer if it reflects your real feelings. You must risk revealing who you really are and sharing
your innermost self. Be honest and be yourself! Write, paint, draw, dance, whatever. Let it out!
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