Be honest. How many of your actions and decisions today were driven by guilt? Were you trying to relieve guilt that you already felt, or trying to avoid feeling guilty later? Using guilt as a motivator starts a chain reaction that can very self-destructive. This is true for everyone, but for someone in recovery from […]
Five Things That Get in the Way of Your Spiritual Connection
This month we’ve been discussing the spiritual piece of the recovery puzzle. For some, spirituality is an untapped resource. Once you learn about ways of accessing your own spiritual connection and make a conscious effort to do that, a whole new world is opened for you. Sometimes, though, the path to spiritual awareness can be […]
Use a Pen to Fight Your Triggers
One of the most helpful tools in 12-step recovery programs is the daily written inventory of what you did well that day, where you could improve, and if there is anything you need to set right with an apology or other action. This practice can be extremely useful when you're learning how to cope with […]
Let’s Get Triggered
For people with an eating disorder, emotional eating or food addiction, the holidays can be like a minefield of "triggers" – situations or foods that bring heightened anxiety and awaken the compulsion to use unhealthy eating behaviors. Earlier in my career, I had been trained from the perspective that we shouldn't mention triggers or specific […]
Identifying Your Addictive Foods
Similar to emotional eating, treating food addiction involves a therapeutic process of gaining insight and awareness into unresolved emotional issues. Besides that, the food addict must also identify and stop eating the foods he or she is addicted to. A food journal can be a valuable tool in this process. Try writing down the foods […]
Jane’s Story of Food Addiction
All her life, Jane noticed that other people around didn’t seem to look at food the same way she did. While she waited all day for school to be over so she could come home and snack (usually right up until dinner), other kids hung out with friends, worked in the library or played sports. […]
Upcoming Groups and Workshops – New Starts and Ideas
Upcoming Groups and Workshops will help you get a jump start in your personal growth process. Click here to view and download your own printable copy! Tell us what you think of the new workshops – let us also know what interests YOU!
Tools only work if you’re ready to use them
I’ve noticed a pattern in my therapy practice over the years, where there will be an influx of people flocking to the Center in search of tools – the right food plan, exercise plan, journaling method, etc. that’s going to deliver freedom from food addiction and eating disorders. “Just give me the answer!” We understand […]
Who does your addiction hurt?
This month we’re looking at denial, a big issue for people with all types of addictions, including food addiction and eating disorders. Denial in relationships Addicts often think their behavior is invisible to others. It’s like how little kids play peek-a-boo. They think that as soon as they cover their eyes, we can’t see them, […]
Are You Lying to Yourself?
Denial leads to relapse Have you ever heard the expression, “Denial is not a river in Egypt”? It’s also the name of a funny book of sayings for people in recovery, and denial is the theme of this month’s blog posts. Alcoholics will often minimize their consumption and say they’re drinking less than they actually […]