In this Advice by Kaela vlog, Kaela answers questions submitted from our community about navigating the COVID-19 transition period as restrictions are lifted as well as general eating disorder recovery questions.
It is funny how for the past two months we have all been desperate to have life feel normal again and then at the first mention of it many people are feeling like all they want to do is retreat into the familiar experience of isolation. It is like we want connection desperately and yet this new world we are going to enter into feels really unpredictable and scary.
Be assertive with your eating disorder and don’t ever hesitate to tell it off. Your job here isn’t to be kind and nice to something that is sucking you of life, joy and connection. Your job is to give your hopes a chance to become a reality by prioritizing one healthy thing at a time.
In our first ever vlog, Kaela answers questions submitted from our community about navigating eating disorders while simultaneously navigating the uncertain times we are living in due to COVID-19.
My hope is that through the Looking Glass Foundation’s many resources, and through our community at large you will realize you are not alone as we all go through this global pandemic that is triggering at large, and also presents some unique experiences to individuals experiencing an eating disorder.
"Try to lessen any judgement toward yourself and bring self-compassion into your personal dialogue. It’s important to be aware of the nature of the situation at our hands; however, I encourage you to protect your heart and mind during this anxiety provoking time, if you find yourself overwhelmed in fear. Take care of you!"
"For those in the eating disorder world, the list of self-neglect is usually long. While for many slowing down to appreciate a nice cup of tea is a huge win, I do think we need to sometimes push into the forms of self-care that can be quite challenging."
Q: I am feeling so defeated. After months of making progress I had a really big set back and it feels like I am right back at the beginning. All of this is making me question whether recovery is really possible for me.
"As the year and decade come to an end we hope you take this time to realize the strength inside you for making it this far. The journey to recovery is a bumpy one, and even if you are at the beginning it takes a lot of courage to want to face yourself so you can lead a happier, freer life."
Recovery is hard, but it’s made harder when we tell ourselves it won’t happen. Holding onto the belief that full recovery is possible and reminding yourself that there will be good days and bad days gives purpose to our struggle. We can’t promise it will be easy, only that it will be worth it.
