Remember that this is not a substitute for professional help, and it's essential to consult a licensed mental health professional for personalized guidance. However, here are some general tips that might be helpful:
Seek specialized treatment: Eating disorders require specialized treatment from professionals experienced in dealing with such conditions. If you feel your current therapist isn't helping, consider seeking out a specialist in eating disorders or a new therapist who has experience in this area.
Open communication: Be honest and open with your therapist about your feelings and concerns. If you're not feeling supported, let them know, and discuss what you need from the therapeutic relationship.
Identify triggers and coping mechanisms: Work with your therapist to identify triggers that contribute to obsessive thoughts about food and calories. Once identified, develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage these triggers effectively.
Cognitive-behavioral techniques: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to treat eating disorders. It can help challenge negative thought patterns and replace them with healthier ones. Techniques such as thought records can help you gain better control over your thoughts.
Mindfulness and self-compassion: Practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Additionally, learning self-compassion can be crucial in reducing self-criticism related to your eating disorder.
Set realistic goals: Set achievable and realistic goals for your recovery journey. Avoid setting strict and unattainable rules around food and calories, as this may exacerbate the obsession.
Nutrition education: Working with a dietitian experienced in eating disorders can help you establish a balanced and healthy relationship with food. They can guide you in understanding nutrition without becoming overly fixated on numbers.
Support network: Engage with a support network of friends, family, or support groups who can understand and provide encouragement during your recovery.
Distraction techniques: Engage in activities that help distract your mind from obsessive thoughts about food. Hobbies, physical activities, or spending time with loved ones can be helpful distractions.
Be patient with yourself: Recovery from an eating disorder is a challenging process and takes time. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that setbacks may happen. Focus on progress rather than perfection.
Remember, everyone's journey to recovery is unique, and it's essential to work closely with a qualified mental health professional to develop a tailored treatment plan for your specific needs. If you feel your current therapist isn't meeting your needs, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion or find a specialist who can better support you in your recovery.