Other Forms of Self-Harm in Eating Disorders Recognizing the Overlap Between Disordered Eating and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury
When we think of self-harm, we often picture behaviors like cutting or burning — physical acts of injuring the body to cope with emotional pain. But for many individuals with eating disorders, self-harm can take other forms — often hidden, socially normalized, or misunderstood.
In fact, many eating disorder behaviors are self-harming in nature, even when they’re not labeled that way.
Bullies & Eating Disorders: Understanding the Connection and Healing
Bullying is a form of emotional, verbal, or physical harm that can leave lasting psychological effects—especially when experienced during childhood or adolescence. One of the less visible, but highly significant, outcomes of bullying is its connection to the development of eating disorders.
While eating disorders are complex, multifaceted illnesses, the role of peer victimization, body-based teasing, and chronic social stress is well-documented in the pathways leading to disordered eating. Understanding this link is essential for prevention, early intervention, and compassionate care.
Are Mirrors an Enemy in Eating Disorder Recovery?
Mirrors can be a complicated and emotional trigger in eating disorder recovery. For many, they become a tool for self-criticism, body-checking, or reinforcing negative thoughts. But do mirrors have to be the enemy? Not necessarily.
With time, boundaries, and self-compassion, mirrors can become a neutral or even positive part of your healing journey. Here’s how to navigate your relationship with mirrors in recovery.
Body Neutrality vs. Body Positivity: What’s the Difference?And Why Both Can Be Helpful in Healing Your Relationship with Your Body
In the age of social media affirmations and self-love slogans, many people are talking about body positivity — and more recently, body neutrality. Both movements aim to help people feel better in their bodies… but they’re not the same thing.
The Unique Challenges of Atypical AnorexiaWhy Recognition, Treatment, and Compassion Matter — Regardless of Body Size
Despite the name, there’s nothing “less serious” about atypical anorexia. In fact, the symptoms, medical complications, and psychological distress are often just as severe — but because it doesn’t look like the stereotype, many individuals go undiagnosed, invalidated, and untreated.
Eating Disorders as Safety-Seeking
Eating disorders aren’t just about food, body image, or weight. They are often:
Attempts to manage anxiety or chaos
Ways to feel control or structure when life feels unpredictable
Numbing tools for emotional pain or trauma
Signals that something deeper is distressing the person