Most people think that eating disorders are just about food and weight. In fact they are much more complicated than that.
Often only you will know if you have an unhealthy relationship with food. If you think you may be developing some bad habits such as overeating, exercising excessively after eating, starving yourself, abusing laxatives, trying to be sick after food or anything else that you think may be an issue, then you’ll need to get some help.
Recovery isn’t just a matter of healthy eating and determination, but about understanding who you are in God, as well as how your emotions are tied up in your eating.
Why me?
We may not always know exactly what has caused us to have an issue with eating. for some it is the result of some kind of life change or stress, such as difficult family environment, the pressure of exams or friendships going wrong.
Whatever the root cause, eating issues are normally due to how we think and feel about ourselves. Whatever the cause of your personal issues, there is a God who loves you and understands what you are going through. there is some excellent help available. Well-presented websites and resources can help you understand yourself better and what may be happening to your body.
What can I do?
* Remember that it is possible to recover fully!
* Tell a Christian friend or youth leader so they can pray with you.
* See your GP for the best advice. You could also contact a charity.
*Remember you aren’t on your own. Thousands of people recover from eating issues of many kinds.
What does the Bible say?
God thinks that you are amazing and whether or not you believe that – here is what the Bible says:
Psalm 139:13-14 – You are fearfully and wonderfully made
Romans 8:16 – You are a child of God
Romans 5:8 – He loves you so much – Christ died for you
Where can I get more help
Don’t bottle things up, or try to cope on your own. Check out what the Bible says, pray and try to talk to someone who can help you – maybe your church leader, youth worker, or someone else that you really trust. They will be able to pray with you, and give you advice and helpful tips.
You could also contact…
Anorexia & Bulimia Care
01462 423351
http://www.anorexiabulimiacare.co.uk
The Eating Disorders Association
0845 634 7650
07977 493345
http://www.edauk.com
Care for the Family
029 2081 0800
http://www.careforthefamily.org.uk
Childline
0800 1111
http://www.childline.org.uk
The Samaritans
0845 790 90 90
http://www.samaritans.org
Taken from BIG ISSUES:Eating Disorders by Spring Harvest written by Ems Hancock – This book is availiable at the Spring Harvest Store. Photograph by daniellehelm used under Creative Commons License.
