Many people like things to go as planned — they like routine, predictability and, ultimately, being able to believe that they have control over at least most of the space they inhabit.
But sometimes — most of the time — things happen in our life that flips our sense of control on its head and causes us to feel restless, overwhelmed and anxious as a result.
In order to feel a sense of control when our lives provide the opportunity to have little, some people turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Mental health struggles like eating disorders commonly arise in those who feel like certain factors in their life are more than they can handle.
How do eating disorders and the concept of control relate?
For many people who battle eating disorders there is a common theme found when diving into the root causes and triggers of their behaviors — a profound desire for control. Individuals struggling with these disorders often feel overwhelmed by various aspects of their lives, such as personal relationships, academic or career pressures, and expectations of society. In some situations, how they consume food and what they do to alter their body image can become areas where they feel a sense of control.
By meticulously regulating food intake, exercise and weight, those battling eating disorders may feel a sense of reclaimed power over their lives. In reality, however, this sense of control is often an illusion and they often lose control to the eating disorder as it dictates their thoughts and behaviors.
What is the role of control?
From being a coping mechanism for stress to giving an illusion of having mastery over oneself and one’s life, control can dangerously play a deceptive role. In order to better see through the illusion of control and overcome disordered eating habits as a result, understanding control is key.
Control as a coping mechanism
For many individuals, eating disorders start out as a coping mechanism for dealing with underlying emotional distress, anxiety or trauma that is present in their lives. In a world that often feels unpredictable and overwhelming, controlling food intake offers a sense of stability and predictability.
The meticulous planning of meals, calorie counting or engaging in restrictive eating patterns oftentimes provides a temporary distraction from the chaos of emotions and the external environment. However, this distraction is not long-lasting and causes greater issues over time.
Body image and control
The ever-present societal emphasis on body image and the idealization of a slender body shape is perpetually contributing to the development of eating disorders in people of all ages and genders.
Many individuals believe thinness to be an outward reflection of their self-worth and success, leading them to use food and exercise as a tool to control their appearance. In this context, control over eating becomes a way to meet societal standards and achieve a perceived sense of acceptance and admiration.
Needless to say, the cycle is unending and real gratification and satisfaction cannot be found in trying to meet the fickle standards set forth in today’s society.
Illusion of mastery
Eating disorders can create an illusion of mastery over one’s body and life. This sense of mastery is particularly appealing to individuals who may feel powerless in other areas of their lives. By controlling their eating habits, they believe they are taking charge of their lives, even as the disorder spirals into a cycle that ultimately worsens their physical and mental health.
The paradox of control
Ironically, the pursuit of control through eating disorders often leads to a loss of control. As the disorder progresses, the individual may become trapped in a cycle of compulsive behaviors, obsession and very rigid habits.
What began as a means to exert control can — and often does — morph into a consuming force that begins dictating and owning every aspect of one’s life, possibly leaving you feeling even more out of control than before.
What does recovering from eating disorders caused by control look like?
Understanding the relationship between eating disorders and control is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. Recovery involves helping individuals regain a healthy sense of control that does not revolve around food and body image.
Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) focus on addressing the underlying emotions and thought processes that contribute to the unhealthy behaviors.
Additionally therapeutic interventions, including holistic therapies like yoga and meditation, medication management (if needed) and nutritional counseling also provide immense help and support while recovering from any kind of eating disorder.
Ready to begin your recovery journey?
If you are afraid that what you thought was under control has instead gotten out of hand, there is no shame in reaching out for help. The compassionate staff at Seeds of Hope is here to listen. Reach out anytime to learn more about our treatment programs by calling (610) 268-9245 or visit our website to fill out a contact form today.
