Using Guided-Self Help in recovery from Binge Eating Disorder and Bulimia Nervosa.
Embarking on the journey of eating disorder recovery can feel daunting, but there is a powerful approach that can guide you towards lasting change. Guided Self-help (GSH), when combined with the expertise of a registered dietitian or psychologist, provides a holistic approach to overcoming disordered eating. GSH is a 7-session intervention, involving a workbook for you to work through in your own time and sessions where you unpack the learning and plan to make changes. This intervention is supported by evidence and has been found to be as or more effective than CBT, the NICE guidance recommends it as a first line intervention for Binge Eating Disorder. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of Guided self-help, unpacking its key components and shedding light on how it can support you to improve your relationship with food and overall well-being.
Understanding Eating Disorders:
Eating disorders are complex conditions that affect both the mind and body. They involve distorted thoughts and behaviours related to food, weight, and body image. GSH aims to help you understand the nature of eating disorders, addressing not only the physical aspects but also the emotional and psychological components.
Understanding Your Relationship with Food:
Guided self-help helps you gain a deeper understanding of your relationship with food. With the support of a registered dietitian, you can explore your personal triggers, challenges, and patterns of disordered eating. By recognising these factors, you can begin to develop a healthier and more balanced approach to nourishing your body.
Making Changes That Stick:
One of the benefits of guided self-help is that it empowers you to make sustainable changes. Guided self-help focuses on creating a personalised and flexible plan that fits your unique needs and circumstances. A registered dietitian will provide expert nutrition guidance to help you establish realistic and achievable goals. It is a great option for individuals who have tried to make lots of changes in the past, but without much success.
Developing Healthy Coping Mechanisms:
Guided self-help equips you with tools and strategies to cope with challenging emotions and situations without resorting to disordered eating behaviours. By exploring better ways to manage stress, anxiety, and other triggers, you can develop a collection of effective coping mechanisms that support your recovery journey.
Building Self-Esteem to Prevent Relapse:
Self-esteem plays a crucial role in preventing relapse and maintaining long-term recovery. Guided self-help emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-compassion. With the support from your guide, you can work on building positive self-esteem, practicing self-care activities, and surrounding yourself with a supportive community that reinforces your progress.
Conclusion:
Guided self-help offers a transformative approach to eating disorder recovery by combining expert guidance from a registered dietitian with self-empowerment and understanding. By delving into the depths of your relationship with food, making sustainable changes, developing healthy coping mechanisms, and building self-esteem, you can embark on a journey towards lasting recovery. GSH equips you with the tools and knowledge to heal your mind, nourish your body, and reclaim your life. With this empowering approach, you have the potential to embrace a healthier relationship with food, foster a positive body image, and establish self-care practices that will support your well-being for years to come.
If you would like to hear more about this intervention, please get in touch here.
Alternatively if you would like to book in for a discovery call to discuss starting Guided self help, you can book a free call here.
NICE guidance: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/qs175/chapter/quality-statement-3-first-line-psychological-treatment-for-binge-eating-disorder
