Managing Extreme Social Anxiety Living with Food Allergies

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People who live with food allergies have a layer of stress that most people do not have to navigate. The simple act of eating becomes a calculated risk, and social gatherings where food is present can become overwhelming. When this is added to extreme social anxiety, every meal carries an emotional weight that goes beyond physical safety.

The fear of an allergic reaction is their reality. This combines with the fear of judgment to create a cycle in which food becomes both a threat and a means of isolation. Managing symptoms does not rely solely on care or vigilance. It also entails understanding the exhausting mental load of scanning ingredients, asking uncomfortable questions, and explaining why the food everyone else is eating is harmful.

This creates a deep relationship between food allergies and anxiety that most people do not understand. Many people with food allergies experience mental health concerns related to managing their condition.

Anxiety and panic become a typical response after eating a potentially triggering food. Constant vigilance to avoid allergens becomes a cycle of hyper-awareness that does not end when the threat has passed. This tension becomes a pattern that shapes how people approach meals and other social situations where food is present.

Christian counselors are trained to recognize that it’s not a matter of drama or over-cautiousness. They understand that it is a real, measurable psychological burden, deeply connected to how some people feel safe and develop a sense of belonging within their communities.

When Extreme Social Anxiety Turns Every Invitation into a Decision

When food allergies and extreme social anxiety intersect, they create a unique set of challenges. Social anxiety involves intense fear of being scrutinized and evaluated. Adding food allergies to this multiplies the triggers, and every dinner invitation becomes a mental calculation.

The person with the allergy has to navigate questioning the food’s safety and how to explain the allergy without appearing to seek attention. These questions can be overwhelming and often lead to declined invitations, despite a desire to connect.

Adults with food allergies often report social challenges as one of the most difficult aspects of allergy management. The physical symptoms are significant, but social isolation usually hurts the deepest. Some are embarrassed when containers are brought out to check ingredients, reinforcing the belief that it’s easier to avoid the situation.

Avoiding will only feed the vicious cycle that people face in navigating and managing food allergies and social anxiety. The more social gathering invitations that are declined, the more it hurts. While they need to be vigilant, they can focus on how to trust God:

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. – Matthew 6:34, NIV

The Weight of Constant Vigilance and What It Costs

Managing food allergies requires sustained attention, which most people do not have to maintain when eating. These individuals must read every label, ask detailed questions about ingredients and preparation, and carry emergency medication. They must plan every meal outside their home to a degree most people take for granted.

Vigilance is necessary for physical safety, yet it also has significant psychological effects. The result is mental exhaustion related to constantly being on guard, which is also known as maladaptive anxiety.

This type of anxiety does not serve its protective purpose. Instead, it interferes with daily functioning and overall quality of life. For those who struggle with extreme social anxiety, this vigilance tends to amplify their existing fears. The physical symptoms of anxiety and allergic reactions often feel similar and create confusion about whether they are experiencing real danger or an anxiety response.

Symptoms of anxiety can include a rapid heartbeat, sweating, nausea, and shortness of breath. This overlap may lead to avoiding safe foods or experiencing panic when there is no medical emergency.

This mindset creates an uncertainty that becomes paralyzing. Christian counselors are trained to help these individuals and distinguish between reasonable caution and excessive restriction. This helps recognize that both body and mind require care in this process.

As they walk through this process, they can learn to come to God with their worries and fears:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. – Philippians 4:6, NIV

How Fear of Judgment Complicates Every Meal

Any social situation involving food already carries a potential for judgment because people notice what you eat, what you do not eat, and how much you eat. When combined with food allergies and social anxiety, these types of observations tend to feel magnified, leading to a fear that others will think you are being picky or difficult regarding your allergies.

Many adults often feel dismissed by others who do not understand the seriousness of food allergies. Hearing specific comments, such as “A little bit won’t hurt,” creates a double burden for the person managing the medical reality and the social validation of that reality.

The fear of experiencing an allergic reaction in public is another dimension of anxiety. Most food allergies result in anaphylaxis. This isn’t very comforting under any circumstances. People with food allergies experience another level of anxiety regarding the thought of having anaphylaxis and needing emergency help in front of other people. Most individuals do not want to cause a scene, which creates concerns that are as threatening as the reaction itself.

Some individuals feel as though it is unmanageable to avoid entire categories of social events. Birthdays, weddings, family celebrations, and work gatherings are often laden with allergen-containing foods. While you can bring your own food or request specific foods, this drives up costs.

Not participating strains relationships and causes missed opportunities. The isolation deepens, but the medical risk and social anxiety feel impossible to manage. Thankfully, people can rely on God’s peace in the midst of the stress:

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. – John 14:27, NIV

Finding a Path Through Extreme Social Anxiety Without Losing Connection

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is typically the go-to treatment for social anxiety. Using exposure therapy, Christian counselors can gradually introduce feared situations in a controlled manner. This process needs to account for legitimate safety concerns and anxiety-driven avoidance for those who are learning to manage food allergies and extreme social anxiety.

Christian counselors are trained to help individuals understand and navigate this process in a healthy, safe way. They recognize that some of the fear is warranted, given that food allergies are severe and vigilance is appropriate.

The goal is to develop strategies that allow for safety and connection. These may include practicing how to communicate about food allergies in ways that reduce vulnerability. One way to create safe social eating experiences is to work with trusted friends and family to develop a safe menu. This could also be done by recognizing the difference between protective anxiety and paralyzing anxiety.

Managing food allergies and extreme social anxiety is about learning to carry the necessary caution without letting it consume every social interaction. There are ways for individuals to advocate for their safety while engaging with the relationships and experiences that matter. Support groups are another way to gain support in understanding the medical and psychological challenges of living with food allergies.

Educating individuals in their close circles creates a buffer and helps them navigate social situations with greater confidence. The path to navigating extreme social anxiety and food allergies is unique to each person. It involves acknowledging that the physical and emotional aspects of this experience are fundamental and deserve care.

Christian counselors are available to help individuals navigate the social anxiety that comes from living with food allergies. By connecting Scripture to feeling safe, people can learn to manage extreme social anxiety and food allergies. Through faith-based treatment, individuals can learn the importance of connection, even when it feels protective.

Call the office to connect with a Christian counselor who can help you navigate living with food allergies. You don’t have to do it alone.

References:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/conditions/social-anxiety-disorder-social-phobia
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/a-deeper-wellness/202511/how-to-calm-down-and-ride-out-difficult-social-settings
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22709-social-anxiety
https://www.hcplive.com/view/anxiety-social-struggles-coping-strategies-adults-food-allergies
https://www.worldallergyorganizationjournal.org/article/S1939-4551(24)00022-X/fulltext
https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/news/researchers-find-link-between-food-allergies-childhood-anxiety

Photo:
“Salad”, Courtesy of Getty Images, Unsplash.com, Unsplash+ License

Anxiety and Relationships: Restoring Hope with God’s Help

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These days, anxiety is everywhere you look, and our culture doesn’t shy away from showing it. Anxiety plays a prominent role in films such as Inside Out 2 and in television shows like The Big Bang Theory. But Anxiety is often shown as something “in your head” or biological. It’s depicted as a trait that the character is born with or perhaps a result of chemical imbalances.

While these and the thousands of other portrayals of anxiety in pop culture can help people recognize anxiety and can bring it into conversations, they often overlook a critical aspect. Anxiety is rarely caused by biology alone. Relationships, environment, and life experiences are major contributors that the media doesn’t always show.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), anxiety is the most prevalent mental health condition in the world. Approximately 4% of the global population, which equals about 301 million people, were affected by anxiety in 2019. And there’s no sign of it letting up. In fact, anxiety disorders have been increasing over time and have risen rather drastically in recent years.

There are myriad reasons that someone might suffer from anxiety, including biological factors, unhealthy thought patterns, everyday stress, and past trauma. Broken relationships are a major factor, too. Pop culture, which often focuses on anxiety as a “brain problem,” rarely shows how distance, conflict, or unresolved tension in relationships can spur or worsen anxiety.

Relationships in the Bible

Are relationships really that powerful? That important? From the beginning, the Bible is a story about relationships. It goes into detail about our connection with God and with one another. David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 18-20) had a deep trust and encouraged each other in their spiritual walk. Ruth and Naomi (Ruth 1-4) give us an example of devotion and loyalty. And of course, the most important relationship in history unfolds in the pages of the Bible.

Right after the fall of Adam and Eve in Genesis chapter 3, Scripture offers a love story about God’s relentless pursuit to restore us. He longs to bring us, His creation, back into a whole, healthy relationship with Him. And He wants us to have deep, meaningful connections with each other.

That story continues throughout Scripture as we see how God provided His only Son, Jesus, to die on a cross to restore our relationship with our Heavenly Father. Jesus talked a lot about relationships, as well.

When someone asked Him which commandment was the most important, His answer was straightforward and clear: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” There is no commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30-31 NIV).

If God went to all this effort to create relationships and restore ours to Him, it must mean that our connections are important. Our relationships matter. Our relationship with God first, and then with each other, is the foundation of our identity.

Anxiety, the Thief

How does anxiety fit into relationships? Anxiety is the thief that can rob you of the peace God wants you to have. But just like any thief, anxiety is sneaky. Of course, it doesn’t usually come out of nowhere. There might be a biological seed or stressful circumstance at the helm. But anxiety can truly grow where there is distance from God and from a healthy support system.

It’s not surprising that anxiety is a thief and enemy to our peace when we trace its lineage. If anxiety is partially caused by brokenness and separation, we have to look at the origins of those causes.

The story in Genesis shows us how brokenness entered the world. Satan, the serpent, deceived Eve about God’s intentions, creating doubt and fear. This deception led to conflict, division, and a rupture not only between humans but between us and God Himself (Genesis 3:1-19). This brokenness from generations ago still affects us today and often shows up as anxiety, because anxiety is a symptom of that deep separation.

Anxiety and Relationships

Similar to the old question of which came first, the chicken or the egg, you might wonder if broken relationships cause anxiety or if anxiety causes broken relationships. Both are true. People with anxiety disorders often face relationship challenges and poor relationship quality. They might engage in behavior that triggers negative reactions and may sabotage their own opportunities for close connections.

Conversely, having broken relationships can cause anxiety, too. When someone you care about (and who you thought cared about you) lets you down or when tension sprouts, distance can grow. In that gap is where anxiety thrives. It makes you doubt yourself, causes you to overthink what you did or said, and makes you worry that things will never get better. It’s a cycle because anxiety grows from broken connections, and it also makes those broken connections harder to repair.

Anxiety tries to keep you stuck in that alone, lonely place. Being removed from God and others can cause anxiety, and anxiety wants to keep it that way. It tries to convince you that you’re alone because you’re not good enough to be loved. And this causes more anxiety, which keeps you from relationships and keeps you stuck.

Hope and Restoration

It doesn’t have to stay that way. What a wonderful God we serve! Our human story doesn’t end in brokenness. God’s story is one of restoration. He pursues you with unwavering love, inviting you into healing and wholeness.

When you take those important first steps back toward God’s presence, not only are you promised eternal life, but anxiety begins to lose its powerful grip. And hope begins to form as you start to see that peace is possible, even among your messy and broken relationships.

God provided a way for us to restore ourselves to Him through the redemptive blood of Jesus, but He can guide us in restoring our human relationships, too. Remember, it was God who saw that Adam needed a companion, and He created one just for him.

God can see when you feel alone, too, and He can repair those strained relationships in your life. He can soften hearts, provide opportunities for reconciliation, and guide you toward bridging those invisible, but real, gaps.

Not only is God the God of the supernatural, but He can use practical tools, too. Therapy and counseling are some of those tools that God can use to help you. Therapy can also help you to restore relationships. Your Christian therapist can help you identify the areas in your life that could be causing relationship issues and help you gain skills to make new connections.

While therapy doesn’t replace your need for God’s grace or a healthy community, it can complement them and give you a way to take action toward reducing anxiety and restoring your relationships (and making new, healthy ones).

When you can break free from the anxiety and strained relationship loop, you will find that restoration happens in the form of restored or new human relationships. Healthy, God-centered relationships. He places friends and family members, mentors, and even strangers who will love you well and remind you that God loves you, even when anxiety makes you feel distant.

While mass media wants to tell you that your anxiety is strictly biological or internal and beyond your control, God has a different message. If you acknowledge the relational and external causes of anxiety and pair that with faith, community, and therapy, you will see that achieving peace from anxiety and restoration of relationships are possible.

For more information and to schedule an appointment with a Christian counselor near you, call us today.

Resources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/anxiety-disordersPhoto:
“Holding Hands”, Courtesy of Javier González Fotógrafo, Unsplash.com, CC0 License;

 

Mental Wellbeing and the Hidden Influence of Gut Health

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Most of us understand mental well-being in terms of thoughts, emotions, and life events. However, few of us realize the hidden community of microscopic organisms in the gut that can also shape how calm, focused, or resilient we feel. The brain-gut connection suggests that there are trillions of bacteria in the digestive system that influence mood, stress response, and even symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Christians understand how this can be both fascinating and reassuring. God has designed our bodies with intricate connections among mind, body, and spirit. “For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” (Psalm 139:13, NIV) Understanding microbiomes offers another way to care for our mental well-being with intention and hope.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure which steps matter when it comes to health and emotional regulation. There are people promoting quick fixes through supplements or strict diets, and others viewing the gut-brain connection as a passing trend. But in the middle are people who want to understand how everyday choices about food, sleep, and stress can support their well-being.

Christian counselors help us explore this without fear or shame, and they are grounded in a biblical view of the body as being fearfully and wonderfully made. It’s comforting to know that when questions arise about mood changes, digestive discomfort, or lingering fatigue, we can rest assured that they are part of a complex system that God understands completely.

How the Gut-Brain Connection Affects Mental Wellbeing

The microbiome is the community of microorganisms living in the body, especially the gut. This community is made up of bacteria that help break down food, produce certain vitamins, and interact with the immune system. Through this connection, they also send signals to the brain, using nerves, immune pathways, and chemical messengers.

Some bacteria are linked to the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid, which influence mood and anxiety levels. When this balance of bacteria is disrupted, it can contribute to inflammation and changes in how the brain processes stress and emotion. This results in subtle yet significant effects on mental well-being.

Researchers have noted that people with depression and anxiety sometimes show differences in gut bacteria. This does not prove that changes in the gut cause mental health issues, but it does suggest that the health of our microbiomes can be an important part of the larger picture.

For some of us, digestive symptoms such as bloating, pain, or irritable bowel syndrome go hand in hand with emotional stress. In other words, when the gut is frequently irritated, signals traveling to the brain may increase stress and sensitivity or cause mood fluctuations.

Christian counselors can help us understand these connections without self-blame. By encouraging gentle curiosity about how gut health can interact with thoughts and beliefs about spiritual practices, counselors can help us identify the changes we need to make not only in our thought processes but also in our diets.

This can also shift how we integrate prayer into our mental well-being. Rather than asking for a change in our minds, we can ask God to show us better choices for nutrition, rest, and the physical care of our bodies. Christian counselors, help us learn to trust that God designed our bodies so that everything can work together.

Everyday Gut Care that Supports Mental Health

Microbiomes are sensitive to daily habits, so that small choices can add up over time. Mixing highly processed foods, chronic stress, and irregular sleep disrupts gut balance. However, nutrient-dense foods, restful routines, and movement can support healthy gut bacteria, leading to healthy mental well-being.

Some individuals have found that increasing fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods helps cultivate a more diverse bacterial flora. This is not a replacement for professional treatment, but it’s one part of a comprehensive approach to mental well-being that respects the body that God designed. “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31, NIV)

Small, steady changes are often more sustainable than sudden overhauls. Choosing foods such as vegetables and yogurt and drinking more water throughout the day can help create a healthy microbiome. This supports healthy mental well-being and a healthy physical body. We don’t have to obsess over every bite as long as we notice what foods affect our mood, energy, and digestive comfort.

Christian counselors emphasize that understanding shifts in our diet is an act of stewardship rather than perfection. It invites us to learn how to care for our gut as part of worship and self-compassion.

Understandably, not everyone has access to fresh food, safe places to exercise, and a predictable schedule. It’s also worth noting that financial stress, caregiving responsibilities, and chronic illnesses can limit what is realistically possible.

The goal is to understand that mental well-being can still be nurtured through small, intentional steps, such as preparing simple meals with affordable ingredients. Asking for help when fatigue becomes overwhelming is not a sign of weakness, but rather an indication of the intention to create a healthy lifestyle that leads to good mental health.

When to Seek Help

Lifestyle changes can support gut health, but at times, professional guidance may be essential. If there are persistent symptoms, such as panic attacks or drastic changes in appetite, they should not be ignored.

A primary care provider, a Christian counselor, and a dietitian can help evaluate underlying medical conditions that can affect gut and mental health. Partnering with a healthcare team allows us to explore the biological and emotional dimensions of our experience rather than just assuming everything is in our head.

This is another area where Christian counselors serve as a bridge between faith, science, and emotional care. They can help us process the fear that sometimes arises when we read about microorganisms or hear conflicting advice online.

Christian counselors help us frame treatment as part of God’s provision rather than a sign of spiritual weakness. They remind us that healing is often gradual and fully seen by God. The result is a life of integrated practices such as prayer, Scripture reading, meditation, and healthy boundaries that address both mind and body.

Integrating nutritional counseling, medical recommendations, and counseling sessions can be especially helpful. It is a collaboration that reflects a holistic view of mental well-being and honors the way God designed our brains to work together.

Faith, Microbiomes, and Mental Wellbeing

Many individuals who are learning about microorganisms are seeing a new way that God cares for every part of life. They see the same God who knows each thought and emotion and also understands the most hidden processes of the body.

This means we don’t have to choose between spiritual support and scientific insight. We can have questions and frustrations, as long as we trust that God’s compassion extends to the entire nervous system, not just parts others can see.

God’s character is steady, and the invitation He gives us is to live as whole people, mind, body, and spirit working together. This is where Christian counselors can walk beside us as we experiment with supportive habits and seek medical evaluation when needed. The small act of choosing a nourishing meal, taking a walk, or making time for God before bed can become spiritual practices that strengthen our gut and our heart.

A Healthier Way Forward

Mental well-being is not a destination achieved through a perfect diet or a counseling session. It’s an ongoing process of learning, adjusting, and resting in God’s care. When we understand how microbiomes in the gut and the brain connect, we remember that none of this surprises God. The same God who knit the body together knows how every system interacts. He will offer wisdom, comfort, and guidance every step of the way.

If you would like to start a faith-based plan to improve your eating habits and mental well-being, contact our reception team today to set up an appointment. Your local counselors can help you get started with healthy food choices and mental habits.

Photo:
“Watermelon Salad”, Courtesy of Frames For Your Heart, Unsplash.com, CC0 License

The Connection Between a Healthy Mind and Nutrition

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The connection between a healthy mind and nutrition runs deeper than most of us often acknowledge. Many of us have experienced a moment when we realized that what we eat matters more than what we feel in our stomachs. We know that instinctively, stress drives us toward comfort foods, and a heavy meal leaves us feeling sluggish.

We are now beginning to discover, through modern research and ancient wisdom, that the foods we choose shape our emotional landscape and clarity of thought just as much as they shape our bodies. This is not about striving for perfection with rigid eating rules. It is about recognizing how we nourish ourselves physically and the consequences it has for our mental and emotional health.

Do you not know that you are a temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? – 1 Corinthians 3:16, NASB

The body and mind work together

Western medicine separated physical health from mental well-being, operating on the assumption that they functioned independently. We treated the body with nutrition and exercise and addressed the mind with counseling and medication. This division does not reflect the reality of how God created both aspects of our bodies.

Our brains require fuel to manage thoughts, regulate emotions, process memories, and maintain focus. If our diet lacks essential nutrients or relies heavily on processed foods and unhealthy fats, our brain will struggle to function at its best.

Diets high in refined carbohydrates promote inflammation, which impairs brain function and worsens mood disorders. Our gut produces most of the serotonin that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite, meaning digestive health directly influences our emotional state.

This inflammation contributes to cognitive decline and worsens symptoms of depression and anxiety. When inflammation is reduced through better nutrition, it’s not a quick fix but a pathway toward improvement. More research is being conducted daily to establish a link between inflammation and mental clarity.

Christian counselors have been trained to recognize that caring for mental health also requires addressing the whole person, and this includes what we consume. Stewarding our bodies acknowledges that God designed us so that physical choices affect our mental and emotional being.

Neglecting our nutritional needs is one way we work against our capacity for peace, clarity, and emotional balance. Studies comparing traditional diets, such as the Mediterranean pattern, with typical Western eating habits have shown that people who follow a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, grains, and fish have a lower risk of depression. This wasn’t a slight difference. It represented a substantial shift in mental health based on food choices.

We don’t have to follow a strict diet or eliminate entire food groups, but we do have to understand that what matters more than the individual meals are the patterns.

When Food Becomes the Problem Instead of the Solution

What we eat and how we feel have a relationship that moves both ways. Mental health struggles can lead to changes in how we eat, and poor nutrition contributes to worsening mental health challenges. An appetite can be dulled or driven toward sugar and comfort foods by depression in hopes of temporary relief. The reality is that symptoms worsen over time for both the mind and the body.

Eating patterns can be disrupted by anxiety, which leaves some people unable to maintain regular meals, while others turn to food to manage the overwhelming emotions. This results in a cycle that is difficult to break without recognizing both sides of the situation. Someone who is struggling mentally may find it difficult to make intentional food choices because it feels like one more impossible task.

Christian counselors help individuals facing depression or anxiety understand that dietary changes, along with other treatments, provide meaningful support, removing obstacles that complicate recovery. We can make good choices and rely on God’s help for restoration:

“For I will restore you to health And I will heal you of your wounds,” declares the LORD… – Jeremiah 30:17, NASB

Building a Healthy Mind Through Daily Choices

Lasting changes do not require overhauling our entire diet overnight. This change requires minor, consistent adjustments that will grow into significant improvements over time. We do this by eating regular meals that will prevent blood sugar drops that trigger irritability, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.

Whole foods, which provide vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and fiber, help our minds function well. Complex carbohydrates maintain steady blood sugar and stable moods, while lean proteins supply amino acids necessary for regulating thoughts and emotions.

Omega-3 fatty acids support brain structure and reduce inflammation. This means that choosing foods like cold-water fish and some nuts helps reduce inflammation. Brain function and emotional regulation will benefit significantly from these anti-inflammatory properties.

All of the choices we make, even the foods we eat, matter to God. No matter what we do, it should be for His glory:

Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. – 1 Corinthians 10:31, NASB

Dramatic dietary changes typically backfire because we cannot maintain unrealistic standards. The goal is to progress toward choices that support our mental health. Small, manageable changes can lead to an overhaul of our eating patterns.

Even water is essential for our overall health and hydration. Mild dehydration can affect mood, energy, clarity, and thinking. God designed our bodies to need consistent fuel throughout the day, not the feast-or-famine pattern most of us engage in during the workday. These patterns leave us running on empty for hours at a time. Making informed choices about food and water requires intention but leads to better overall health.

The Spiritual Dimension of Physical Care

When we care for our bodies, it affects our minds and spirits. God did not create us with disconnected parts. We are whole beings – physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual – that work together.

Neglecting our physical needs while expecting to thrive spiritually and emotionally misaligns with how we’re designed. Being exhausted or malnourished makes it hard to engage fully in life. Good nutrition allows us to live fully and to serve more effectively. When we see things from this perspective, nutrition shifts from a burden to an opportunity.

When we change eating habits, we often find deeper patterns in how we relate to stress and emotions. Food carries meaning beyond nutrition, including comfort, celebration, and identity. To make change, we must acknowledge these connections.

When we experience difficult emotions, we tend to reach for foods that provide temporary soothing but lead to long-term problems. We must learn to recognize these patterns without judgment. This process takes time and often benefits from support.

The connection between a healthy mind and nutrition isn’t about guilt or shame. It’s about understanding how our food choices influence mental well-being. Each meal is an opportunity to choose foods that support our health. There will be some days that are easier than others, but what matters is the overall direction and the gradual shift toward patterns that serve us better. He leads us toward a healthy mind and body.

Little by little, choice by choice, we can be transformed:

And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. – Romans 12:2, NASB 1995

You can change

The connection between a healthy mind and nutrition isn’t just a discovery or trend. It is how God designed us to function as a whole when He created us as physical beings. Professional treatment for mental health challenges doesn’t replace choosing foods for a healthy mind. It provides another pathway toward wellness.

Small, consistent changes can turn into meaningful improvements as we add more whole foods and eat regular meals to nourish our bodies and minds. This is an act of stewardship that honors the body and mind that God gave us. We desire to move toward patterns that support a healthy mind. We are making choices that serve us well and bring fresh chances to nourish our bodies each day.

If you want help with ways to make healthier choices, a Christian counselor on this site can help. Connect with the team to learn how to get started today.

References:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/rhythms-of-recovery/202305/4-nutrition-lessons-for-mental-health
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626
https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/nutrition
https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/nutrition/eating-well-for-mental-health
mhanational.org/resources/eating-well-being/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/diet-and-mental-health-can-what-you-eat-affect-how-you-feelPhotos:
“Healthy Breakfast”, Courtesy of Hans, Unsplash.com, Unsplash+ License; “Salad”, Courtesy of Getty Images, Unsplash.com, Unsplash+ License; “Fruit Cup”, Courtesy of Yulia Khlebnikova, Unsplash.com, CC0 License

Helicopter Parenting: Is it Helpful, Harmful, or Avoidable?

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You’ve probably heard the term helicopter parenting thrown around in parenting circles. The phrase conveys a mental image of a parent hovering over a small child who’s just trying to play freely. The phrase might also conjure images of a college student whose parent still plays an interventionist role in her education, such as calling a professor to find out why the student got a bad grade.

The term helicopter parent was first used in a 1969 book about parenting teenagers. Today, it’s commonly used to describe parenting that’s too involved, as opposed to having a healthy level of engagement.

Sometimes parents admit that they’re helicoptering but claim that it’s necessary. As time goes on, sometimes the realization sets in that this type of parenting can do more harm than good, hampering a child’s ability to develop the necessary independence that’s a part of growing up.

If you’ve heard of helicopter parenting, you’re probably aware that it’s generally seen as a negative parenting style. But you are probably aware that the opposite extreme (dismissiveness, disengagement, and neglect) is even more harmful.

What does helicopter parenting look like?

Since helicopter parenting is overly intrusive and controlling, it does not respect a child’s need for increasing independence as he or she grows. Sometimes it doesn’t allow much room for a child to have negative experiences or emotions.

These issues are heavily dependent on the age of the child. What might be helicopter parenting for a teen could also be healthy parenting for a toddler. Every child and family is different, with highly individual needs.

While there are overall principles that can guide us as we try to understand good parenting, individual counseling for parenting can be far more helpful in assessing specific needs for each child and family.

How do you know if you’re a helicopter parent? Some signs and symptoms of helicopter parenting might include parent-directed play, overly strict rules, unwillingness to allow the child to take initiative, lack of unstructured free time, and parental discomfort with a child’s negative emotions.

In teenagers, helicopter parenting might look like intensive control over neutral areas, demanding strict accounting of time, not allowing room for decision-making, or being involved in communication with teachers, employers, or other authority figures on the teenager’s behalf.

Many of the actions in helicopter parenting are valuable in and of themselves, but harmful when taken to an extreme. That’s why nuance is important and why Christian counseling for parenting can help parents avoid the pitfalls of helicopter parenting and help their child grow into all God has created them to be as the years pass.

When we set our children free from intrusive parenting, we allow them to flourish on their own as individuals, and that can be both joyful and scary to witness. Christian counseling for parents can not only address parental issues, but also individual issues of anxiety, fear, and other emotional concerns.

What Helicopter Parenting Is Not

Let’s emphasize that parental involvement, responsiveness, and warmth are all crucial aspects of raising a child. The younger the child, the more hovering will be required. Parents should not worry that by being involved in their child’s life or having firm, loving guidelines and boundaries, they are in danger of ruining their parenting with helicoptering.

Attunement (emotional responsiveness) and empathy (relating to others’ feelings) are both crucial to the well-being of individuals and relationships, especially in the forming of parent-child bonds.

If you respond to your baby when they cry, help regulate your toddler’s emotions, help your elementary child with their homework, or console your teen after their first breakup, don’t worry. None of these actions indicates that you’re a helicopter parent.

Let’s outline some specific behaviors to avoid and the healthy behaviors parents can replace them with, as well as go over some of the risks of helicopter parenting.

As always, individual Christian counseling can address your specific situation much better than generalized advice can. Please contact our office today for more information about Christian parenting counseling.

What does godly parenting look like?

Many Christian parents wonder how they can parent effectively in an increasingly secular culture. Does helicopter parenting mean not exercising control or limits over what your child watches or whom they befriend? How should a parent set age-appropriate rules, especially for teens? And what happens when your child makes a mistake because you gave them the freedom to do so?

The Bible doesn’t offer a wealth of direct parenting advice, but as an example, here are two Scriptures that mention parenting:

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. – Ephesians 6:4, NIV

Train up a child in the way he should go, and even when he is old, he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6, ESV

We can see from these passages that parenting is a sacred responsibility, not something to be taken lightly. God calls parents to guide and teach their children, but the outcome of that training is in His hands.

The Balance of Healthy Parenting

On the one hand, being overly involved in your child’s life may inhibit their healthy development. But on the other hand, a lack of positive engagement and adequate guidance can also hold them back.

What is the balance of allowing a child freedom as he or she grows, but maintaining an engaged and responsive parenting style?

How can parents show up lovingly and be present every day, but also provide space for children to explore independently, make mistakes, and learn how to become increasingly competent over time?

What To Do Instead of Helicoptering

For toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-age children allow them to play and explore freely in safe environments. Let them take the initiative in play. For toddler tantrums, provide soothing co-regulation rather than giving in to their demands.

Watch them play rather than playing with them every time. When you do play with them, allow them to take the lead. “Stage” toys and analog activities for them to discover.

In these early years, focus on laying a good foundation of healthy involvement so you’ll be able to gradually let go as they get older.

For elementary, middle, and teens avoid overscheduling. Allow them to do hard things themselves and learn from their mistakes. Protect them from bullying and harsh treatment, but allow them to navigate low-level friendship problems themselves, while remaining available to talk things through.

For teens it’s important to allow age-appropriate freedom, independence, and decision-making as much as possible, while protecting teens from the risks inherent to adolescence. This is much easier said than done! According to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s crucial to maintain warmth, connection, and open communication as much as possible while still following through on family rules and guidelines.

Perhaps one of the most important things is to get to know your child as an individual and base your parenting on their needs.

Growing In Grace as a Parent

Helicopter parenting isn’t the healthiest parenting style, and it’s also not the most harmful. It’s often a way for well-intentioned parents to give their kids the best chance they can at having a good life. But despite good intentions, this parenting style can be detrimental to child development and the parent-child relationship.

No parent is perfect, and no child is perfect. Christian parenting isn’t about perfection; it’s about allowing the love, grace, and discipline we experience from the Lord to flow through us and make a difference in our children’s lives.

Overly involved parenting can be a sign of heart issues, not just a need for parental behavior modification. When we take the time to delve into what’s motivating us, we might uncover fears, hurts from the past, or other issues affecting our ability to trust the Lord and walk in freedom and confidence as parents.

The good news is that there is so much freedom to be found on the other side of fear. We can embrace the love and guidance of God and know that He loves our children even more than we do. As we learn to set them free and let them go, we can grow in confidence that the Lord is the one who never lets either of us go.

If you need practical help in applying biblical principles to your parenting and avoiding helicopter parenting and other unhealthy parenting styles, please call our office today at (949) 386-7181 or contact us to schedule your first risk-free session. The trained counselors at Christian Counseling can walk with you on your sacred journey of parenting.

Resources: 
https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/what-is-helicopter-parenting/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/childhood-narcissism/202409/how-helicopter-parents-hurt-their-children
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/could-your-helicopter-parenting-actually-be-detrimental-to-your-childs-developmentPhoto:
“Dishes with Dad”, Courtesy of Getty Images, Unsplash.com, Unsplash+ License

Healing from Body Shame

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Many people struggle with body image issues. “Body image is a combination of the thoughts and feelings that you have about your body.” In a UK study from 2019, it showed that “one in five adults (20%) felt shame, just over one-third (34%) felt down or low, and 19% felt disgusted because of their body image in the last year.”

Body image issues can lead to other significant mental health problems, such as eating disorders, depression, suicidal ideation, and anxiety disorders. Body image and body shame are a bit different, because people can have a healthy or positive body image. Body shame is a newer term, and it’s different from body-shaming, which is making fun of someone or mistreating them because of some flaw (real or perceived) on their body.

Body shame is treating yourself that way – feeling and believing your body isn’t good for whatever reason and mistreating yourself because of that. Mistreating it could look like extreme diet and exercise, talking badly about it, having eating disorders, excessive plastic or corrective surgeries, problematic drug or alcohol use, engaging in high-risk sexual activity, hiding your body, or not giving it what it needs for health.

Body shame could originate from several things. Past trauma (especially sexual), but also emotional and physical abuse, can lead to debilitating body shame. Being bullied or teased as a child and young adult and being compared to others with different body types, can cause it. Constant social media or pictures of celebrities with “ideal” body types, perpetual and unwanted singleness, or a lot of unwanted romantic or sexual attention can also lead to body shame.

This is an issue with which so many struggle, and they are scared to talk about it. But it’s possible to begin healing from body shame, to begin seeing your body as good, no matter what it looks like. This article will only scratch the surface, and professional counseling may be the best route to work through all of it, but these are some steps to heal from body shame.

Healing from Body Shame

As you work through these steps, jot your feelings and thoughts down in a notebook. If you decide to get counseling for body shame, this notebook will help facilitate discussions between you and your counselor.

Create a timeline of the history of body shame

When was the first time you felt shame about your body or being in your own skin? Write out every single moment that stands out from childhood until now, every moment that you felt like you hated or despised your body. Think about the reason what that experience meant to you. Was it abusive in any way? Was it traumatic? Name everything that comes to mind.

Think about how you were hurt/ what you felt then

As you do this, with each memory, consider what you felt in that moment. Di you feel confusion, shame, embarrassment, loneliness, sadness, or anger? What did you feel then and what do you feel now as you remember? How was this situation hurtful? What was so hurtful about it?

What did you believe then

Next, think about what you believed then about the situation, the other people involved, and your body. This could have been the result of something someone said or how they acted toward you, but what belief began to take root? Were there any times you believed positive things about your body? When was that and what was that like?

What do you believe now

What do you believe now? Do you believe any of those negative things about your body today? Why or why not? Do you believe any positive things? What are those positive things? What do you like and dislike about your body? Name it all, no matter how difficult this may be. It’s important to be completely honest with yourself about it because honesty and vulnerability are ways people can heal from any type of shame.

Center on truth

Just because you think it doesn’t make it true, and just because someone said it to you or about you doesn’t make it true. What is true is that your body is good. When God made man and woman, he said they were good. That doesn’t just include their souls. It means everything, body and soul. It’s possible to begin believing your body is good, no matter its state or how it looks.

Truth doesn’t ignore the unhealthy things, though. If your body is unhealthy in any way, it’s important to recognize this truth and not ignore it. But you don’t want to slip into extreme mistreatment of your body because of negative thoughts and feelings. You want to center on the truth that your body is good.

Work toward forgiveness of those who’ve hurt you

It’s never okay to mistreat someone because of their body shape, size, or anything about their appearance. This is body-shaming and often abusive. Most of the time, it’s because of something someone did or said to you that led you to feel shame about your body. You’ve been able to identify what it was that hurt you most.

Now it’s time to move toward forgiveness. They might not have ever apologized for the wrong they did to you and may never. But holding that hurt and anger toward them will only hurt you more. It’s time to be free of the hold they have on you. Spend time practicing forgiveness.

Write out “I forgive _________ for ____________” in your journal, then speak each one out loud. It may take months or years to forgive repeatedly, but it’s an important step in your healing.

Move toward acceptance and healthy self-care

Self-acceptance and self-compassion are the highest goals here, because compassion is another way to break through shame. Spend some time treating your body as though it were good. Write positive affirmations on your mirror. Keep those same affirmations around your home or where you see them often. Tell them to yourself over and over again. Look in full-length mirrors at yourself and smile at yourself in the mirror.

Buy (and wear) clothes that flatter your body. Take good care of your body by eating healthy and exercising regularly. Prioritize rest. Moderate your alcohol consumption and don’t misuse substances. The goal here is not to be military-like, obsessive, or even shallow with yourself, but to treat your body as if it were good. What would it mean for you to accept the fact that your body is good and for you to treat it that way?

Set boundaries with people who continue to mistreat you

This may be one of the hardest steps because you’ll have to confront people. It’s only worth it to do this with people whom you want to remain in your life. You can share with them how you felt (or feel) when they said or did (or present tense) whatever hurts you and leads you to feel shame about your body. “I feel ____ when you _____.” Or “please stop saying ______ about my body. I don’t like it, and it makes me feel ______.” Or “I’m choosing to believe the best about myself.”

If they are presently saying negative things about your body, it will be up to you to stand up for yourself. This is a way of treating your body like it’s good. Consider what boundary you’d like to put in place. For example, never talk about physical appearance with a specific person or not shopping with that person. It could be that you decide to only talk positively about your body and others’ bodies around that person.

Whatever your boundary, you’ll need to communicate it to the one who keeps hurting you. If that person continues to disrespect the boundaries you have in place, you may choose to spend less time with them altogether. They aren’t proving to be safe people, and it’s difficult to heal from body shame with unsafe people in your life. Meeting with a counselor can help you know how to set boundaries with others to protect yourself from further shame.

Body shame doesn’t have to ruin your life. You can fight back. You can heal and believe your body is good, and you can treat it like it’s good, too. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help from a compassionate counselor so you can fully heal from body shame.

References:
https://nedc.com.au/eating-disorders/eating-disorders-explained/body-image/
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/body-image-report/exec-summary#:~:text=New%20body%20image%20statistics,-New%20online%20surveys&text=One%20in%20five%20adults%20(20,image%20in%20the%20last%20year.

Photos:
“Woman on the Beach”, Courtesy of Dan Torres, Unsplash.com, CC0 License; “Woman on the Beach”, Courtesy of Priscilla Du Preez, Unsplash.com, CC0 License; “Woman on the Beach”, Courtesy of Darko Trajkovic, Unsplash.com, CC0 License

Body Image Issues in the Perimenopausal Woman

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Perimenopause is the stage before menopause when the body begins the process. Hormones fluctuate wildly and then slowly start to decrease. Perimenopause can last months or years, depending on the woman. Unfortunately, these changes can bring about physical and mental distress in many women. Body image issues can creep up even in women who never had a problem, leading to anxiety, depression, lower self-esteem, and less confidence.

Body Image Issues That May Affect You

A positive body image creates a sense of confidence and empowerment. Accepting your body for where it is and what it does for you makes you walk a little straighter and grab new opportunities. Other people notice your confidence, no matter your age.

However, when body image issues become the focus, you can lose your self-esteem. Perimenopause and menopause are two stages in a woman’s life where these issues can lead to problems affecting how you view yourself, how you manage your relationships, and what opportunities you feel confident to accept.

The following are several physical and mental body image issues that may affect you.

Redness and Splotchiness on Face

Dry skin, redness, and splotchiness on the face are common skin issues that perimenopausal women struggle with in their 40s and 50s. Some women may experience breakouts due to the hormonal shifts. This period in a woman’s life may be reminiscent of adolescence with fluctuating hormone levels.

Dark Circles Under Eyes

Lower estrogen levels cause skin thinning, which is more pronounced in the area under the eyes, where the blood vessels are more noticeable. This causes dark circles under the eyes. This issue is worsened if the woman also has bouts of insomnia or sleep deprivation.

Weight Gain

As estrogen and progesterone levels shift downward, the stress hormone cortisol increases. Cortisol increase and a slower metabolism can lead to more fat storage and changes in fat distribution. Muscle mass also decreases without proper resistance training. Without enough muscle, metabolism lowers dramatically.

Increased Waist Circumference

The stress hormone cortisol is also responsible for abdominal fat, also known as visceral fat. This fat settles in the abdominal and waist area, surrounds the organs, and increases the waist circumference. A larger waist size contributes to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. The recommended waist measurement for health is less than thirty-five inches; however, this figure depends on other factors.

Bleeding Gums

Although bleeding gums is not a body image issue that is well-known in perimenopausal women, it can be a problem for some. Hormonal changes can cause the gums to swell and become inflamed. This can lead to bleeding, and if left unchecked, the plaque and bacteria can cause damage to the gumline and teeth. This affects a woman’s smile and how she presents herself to the world.

Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Skin loses its elasticity as estrogen and collagen decrease. Women may see noticeable fine lines, wrinkles, sagging, and dull skin. This can affect how they perceive their beauty. Some women become so obsessed with recapturing their youthful looks that they undergo risky and expensive procedures.

Graying Hair

As women age, their body decreases the production of estrogen, melanin, and ferritin. Combined, these lower levels of hormones cause hair thinning, less volume, and less pigment in the hair, leading to gray, white, or silver hair. Since many women consider their hair a beauty trademark, the sudden changes in texture, volume, and color can be disconcerting.

Low Self-Esteem, Lower Self-Confidence, Anxiety, and Depression

As perimenopause continues, the likelihood of developing depression and anxiety rises. Mood swings and irritability are also common during the months or years of perimenopause and menopause. The more changes a woman notices in her body, the more her self-esteem and self-confidence can take a hit. Body image issues are linked to the development of mental health conditions, including disordered eating, in an attempt to “fix” the body.

Christian Counseling for Women in Huntington Beach

Body image issues can become so strong that a woman will do anything to recapture youth. These endeavors can lead to tragic results. For example, a woman with body image issues may develop an eating disorder and body dysmorphia, which, if left untreated, could lead to death.

Has perimenopause led you to develop body image issues or exacerbated your emotions surrounding how you already view your body? Contact our office today at Huntington Beach Christian Counseling to schedule an appointment with a Christian counselor in Huntington Beach, California specializing in women’s issues and body image issues. We would love to help you learn to accept your body while developing a healthier lifestyle and positive mental well-being.

Photo:
“Cloudy Beach”, Courtesy of Sam Hozan, Unsplash.com, CC0 License

How to Not Give In to Depression After a Breakup

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Feeling sad after a breakup is a normal reaction. You invested time, money, and emotions into a relationship that did not work out. Perhaps the breakup came as a surprise or had been a long time coming. What’s important now is not to give in to depression after a breakup.

Depression After Breakup: How to Protect Yourself from Getting Stuck

A breakup is a loss, and you may experience the five stages of grief as you navigate the first few days and months. You may experience denial or shock, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. To keep from getting stuck in the depression stage after a breakup, protect your mental health and well-being.

The following are several tips for protecting yourself from depression after a breakup.

Confide in a trusted friend

You need the support of a trusted friend or family member right now. Someone you can confide in and who will hold your hand while you process your emotions. Listen to them if they want to share their experience with depression after a breakup or offer advice.

Find a support group

The knee-jerk reaction after a breakup is to seclude away. But what you need now is support. Depression and grief support groups are excellent for providing participants with first-hand experience and tips for moving past heartache. You can find local and virtual groups online or check with your community center or local public library.

Consider counseling

Counseling can teach you the strategies and skills to process the breakup, accept your new reality, and make plans for the future. Counseling can help if you need to heal from trauma, abuse, neglect, abandonment, or feelings of low self-worth. The methods shared equip you with lifelong techniques to get over any obstacle.

Distance yourself from your ex

The old saying, “Out of sight, out of mind,” comes in handy after a breakup. You need at least a few weeks of distance from your ex as you process and heal. Don’t follow them on social media or in real life. If you must see them, try to keep your distance and only talk when necessary, such as when coparenting.

Dive into creative pursuits

Dive back into the activities that make you happy. Pursue creative outlets that allow you to express your feelings. For example, painting, sculpting, writing songs or short stories, crocheting, and playing a musical instrument are all ways you can express yourself. Make time for creative pursuits and hobbies to boost your mood and overall well-being.

Acknowledge your feelings, but don’t stay there

It’s important to acknowledge your feelings, but don’t stay there. You need to feel those emotions to work through them, but remaining stuck will not help you move forward. Consider journaling your thoughts and emotions. Journaling permits you to record your most vulnerable thoughts and distance yourself from them, promoting healing.

Exercise to feel better

People exercise to feel better about themselves externally and internally. Heart-pumping exercise triggers the release of endorphins and other brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine. This release leaves you feeling happier and confident. Exercise also lowers cortisol, the stress hormone, and regulates mood.

Christian Counseling in Huntington Beach, CA

Talk therapy and other psychological methods are effective for managing depression after a breakup. Schedule a session with a Christian counselor in Huntington Beach, California to receive an assessment and discuss the skills and strategies you need to move forward. Contact us today at Huntington Beach, California, to learn more.

Photo:
“Wildflowers”, Courtesy of Annie Spratt, Unsplash.com, Unsplash+ License

What is Therapy Like? An Inner Look at the Therapy Office Experience

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If you are asking yourself “What therapy is like?” then this article is for you. It takes an inner look at the therapy office experience and the many differences you find behind each door. With all the differences, it can make it difficult to decide how, when, and what therapy to start with.

That’s okay, there are tools for that as well (see “Individual Choice” section). There are not only differences between therapies and therapists but also unique phases of therapy each client goes through. It all comes down to individual choices. Huntington Beach Christian Counseling offers personalized support, helping clients navigate their unique therapy journey with compassion and care.

Differences

Certain techniques of therapy fit certain people. There is no one-size-fits-all. In order not to make this a textbook-sized article, the following are over-simplifications of different types of therapy, including some highlights of the most used therapies out there such as DBT, CBT, somatic, psychodynamic, etc. Just as a reminder, this is an oversimplification.

Commonly used therapies

DBT, ACT, CBT. basically brain training. The concepts are black-and-white, plug-and-play techniques that have proven to work for many people. There’s a lot of talking, but a lot of formulas being plugged into throughout.

Somatic

Body and brain training. The concepts connect the whole brain, but the focus is on the reptilian portion and therapists work through experience exercises that can range from holding onto the edge of a table to jumping off a tower into a foam pit.

Psychodynamic

Here’s where you talk it out and see where things go. Most offices really do have a couch, and some people lie down on it.

Online vs. in-person

Youth

The entertainment factor is a must to consider how well they can engage/be attentive (so don’t be surprised if there is more of a play approach), there’s a certain age limit for the general therapist out there.

Adults

Psychological disconnect (no replacement for in-person), but otherwise no difference is shown in short-term studies (in other words, real work can still be done online).

Social: male/female, religious/nonreligious, race

Male/female

You may not have a preference, or you may feel strongly about it. It will be an easy choice for some individuals. As a couple, it may be more difficult to navigate the first-time choices of a male or female.

The most important question is whether you have had major trauma involving one gender to another. Either way, it’s going to be a case-by-case basis where one gender or another could change your mind on the issue just because of how they naturally fit your case.

Religious/non-religious

Similar to male/female considerations – the couple’s work makes this more of a factor than for individuals since couples may not be in the same space religiously and will need to find the best middle ground.

For individuals, the benefit of a particular religious background is an understanding of vocabulary and context to certain sensitivities. Otherwise, no matter the religious background, it is likely the therapist has worked with both religious and nonreligious alike.

Race

Again, you may not have a preference, but similar to the above, race can be an identifying factor in who you want to see and open up to in the experience of therapy.

The phases

The beginning phase

The beginning phase is when the introductions happen. No matter the level of intensity of the problem, this phase typically has little change overall. It is in this phase where the problem can be closely examined, and the client can work to get used to the therapist and the therapist can get to know the client. Typically, if any progress is made in this stage, there will be a temptation to quit too early before the lasting work is done.

The working phase

This phase can be the most uncomfortable for the client. It is in this phase where challenges to the client’s routine/habits are made. It is the time when the reality of the situation shows and the going gets tough. It is important to advocate for yourself during this phase, so the therapist can adjust their approach accordingly.

The end phase

This phase can be difficult for some, but in general, this is where progress is reviewed, game plans for future trouble are made, and final check-ins take place before saying goodbye to therapy. This may mean that progress has been made and therapy is no longer needed. However, this may also occur before transferring to a new type of support.

Individual choice

Overall, therapy is an individual choice. With no guarantees offered, the success of it depends on multiple factors. Your individual choices are not only what type of therapy you will try, but also what type of therapist you want to meet with. Another individual choice is when you want to enter and exit therapy.

Regarding couples therapy, it should be kept in mind that there is no such thing as shotgun therapy. Should a spouse not be committed to the relationship, even for a short time for the sake of trying therapy, there should be no couples therapy

Keeping these choices in mind is important in helping you sift through the options of therapists and therapies out there. If it becomes more overwhelming to make the decision yourself, reach out to our reception team at Huntington Beach Christian Counseling or 424-438-2888 and let them know so they can help you find the best place to start.

Photos:
“Relaxing”, Courtesy of Coen Stall, Unsplash.com, CC0 License; “Naptime”, Courtesy of Adrian Swancar, Unsplash.com, CC0 License; “Counseling”, Courtesy of TienDat Nguyen, Unsplash.com, CC0 License

Different Types of Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa

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Probably the most well-known of the different types of eating disorders is anorexia nervosa. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) statistics, “anorexia has the highest case mortality rate and the second highest crude mortality rate of any mental illness.”

The good news is that anorexia is treatable, and you can get your physical and mental health back on track with medical and psychological help. Huntington Beach Christian Counseling can provide support during your recovery journey.

What is anorexia nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa (commonly referred to as anorexia) is a dangerous eating disorder with a high mortality rate. Those with anorexia suffer from more than emotional turmoil; their physical health is in jeopardy.

Anorexia behavior includes starvation. This may be a blatant refusal of food or eating minimal food when offered. The most common symptom of anorexia is a gaunt and underweight appearance. Bones may be visible without clothing. The person with anorexia may see themselves differently in the mirror, however. Anorexia is often comorbid with body dysmorphic disorder. They may see themselves as larger than they are or have a deep-seated fear of gaining weight.

According to the ANAD statistics, out of the different types of eating disorders, those with anorexia face an 18% higher suicide rate than their peers without an eating disorder. Those with anorexia can also encounter more degenerate physical health. Medical treatment is a priority for these patients. Once their physical health is stable, the work to heal the psychological damage can commence.

The symptoms of anorexia nervosa.

The symptoms of anorexia include:

  • Refusing to eat.
  • Denying hunger.
  • Only eating specific foods with little to no nutritional value.
  • Adhering to rigid food rules.
  • Starving oneself.
  • Underweight.
  • Protruding bones under clothing.
  • Brittle hair and nails.
  • Dry skin.
  • Severe dehydration.
  • Dizziness.
  • Fainting.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Slow heart rate.
  • Nutritional deficiencies.
  • Anxiety.
  • Depression.
  • Poor body image.
  • Irregular periods or amenorrhea.

Due to the nutritional deficiencies and extreme weight loss, physical health is a concern. If left untreated, anorexia can lead to organ failure. Medical professionals prioritize physical health to help the patient’s body stabilize.

Treatment for anorexia nervosa.

Once the person with anorexia is stable physically, treatment for the mental disorder can begin. A counselor will assess the person’s behavior and listen to them share their thoughts and emotions before creating a care plan. To treat the compulsions that drive anorexic behavior, counselors must understand the thoughts behind the actions. The counselor and client build a rapport and a safe relationship that allows the freedom to share.

Counselors may use several different types of eating disorder treatments depending on the client’s assessment and level of severity of anorexia.

Individual talk therapy.

There may be a reason that a client turns to anorexia that goes beyond wanting to be a smaller size or not wanting to gain weight. Exactly why do they feel the need? Why are they afraid? A counselor helps the client work through these issues and triggers.

 

Group therapy.

People are stronger together, especially those who have overcome anorexia, and are willing to share with others. Group therapy is a safe space to share and gain insight from others while being led by a professional mental health care worker.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

This technique helps clients to identify triggers, emotions, and thoughts that lead to anorexic behaviors. The client then can work with the counselor to learn ways to re-frame those thoughts and actions.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

Although not explicitly created for eating disorders, DBT has proven helpful in helping a client with anorexia (or bulimia or binge eating) manage stressors and relationships instead of turning to the harmful behaviors associated with anorexia.

Nutrition education.

Nutritional education is a must to help the client adapt to a regular eating schedule with proper portions and variety. The menu may change as the client becomes healthier, allowing for a greater variety, but in the beginning, checking in with a nutritionist will keep treatment on track.

A counselor may incorporate several methods to help a client with anorexia. They may meet in person, virtually, or a combination of both.

Counseling for different types of eating disorders.

From the different types of eating disorders, do you struggle with anorexia nervosa? Do the symptoms sound familiar, but you do not quite meet the criteria for a full-blown eating disorder?

We can help. Contact our office today to schedule an assessment with a Christian counselor at Huntington Beach Christian Counseling. Your counselor will assess your health and help you connect with medical treatment if necessary while you work on the emotional and mental healing from anorexia.

Resources:
https://anad.org/eating-disorder-statistic/
Photos:
“Daisies”, Courtesy of Stijn Dijkstra, Pexels.com, CC0 License; “Daisies”, Courtesy of Krystyna Zygalska, Pexels.com, CC0 License; “Daisies”, Courtesy of Annie Spratt, Unsplash.com, Unsplash+ License