Are you a helping professional who struggles with eating? You’re not alone. Many therapists, dietitians, nurses, nutritionists, teachers, and other healthcare workers feel the pressure to prioritize their clients’ needs over their own, leading to shame and guilt around their relationship with food. Many of our clients happen to work in these fields, and can become overwhelmed with their personal relationship with food.
As a fellow healthcare worker and eating disorder dietitian, I want to remind you that seeking support for yourself is a courageous act of self-care. Just because you’re an expert in the field doesn’t mean you’re immune to the challenges of healing your relationship with food. In fact, the pressure to be a role model for your clients can sometimes make it even harder to ask for help.
The truth is, relationships with food are complicated. Food is not just fuel – it’s a source of pleasure, connection, joy, culture, memories, emotion, and so much more. And when our relationship with food is strained, it can impact every aspect of our lives.
That’s why it’s so important to prioritize your own self-care, including seeking non-judgmental care for your eating struggles. You deserve to be seen and heard, without shame or guilt. And you deserve to work with healthcare providers who understand the unique challenges of being a helping professional.
If you’re struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating, know that healing is possible. It’s okay to ask for help, and it’s okay to prioritize your own self-care. And if you’re a healthcare provider who works with clients with eating disorders, remember that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your clients.
Let’s work together towards a more compassionate and nourishing way of life, free from the constraints of diet culture. You are not alone, and you are worthy of kindness and compassion.
If you’re ready to seek support for your eating struggles, We are here to help. We are available as virtual eating disorder dietitian support in Arizona, Iowa, Connecticut, New York, Colorado, Utah, California, Michigan, Virginia, and more.
