How do I make myself eat when everything feels so bad in the world?
“How do I make myself eat when everything feels so bad in the world?”
That was an exact question a client asked me this week.
I don’t often share my thoughts on politics publicly, but lately I’ve been seeing global events show up more and more in my clients’ relationships with food. When the world feels chaotic, overwhelming, or unsafe, it makes sense that our bodies and minds struggle too. And this question, how do we stay committed to food recovery when everything feels like it’s falling apart? is such an important one.
We know that eating disorder and disordered eating behaviors often function as coping skills. They can be a way to feel more regulated internally when the world around us feels completely out of control. With constant access to disturbing news and imagery, it’s common to experience appetite loss, urges to restrict, or spikes in eating driven by emotional soothing. All of these responses are understandable, and all of them can pull us further away from recovery and nourishment.
So what can we do to protect our relationship with food during times like this?
1. Reduce exposure to distressing content
This doesn’t mean being uninformed or ignoring what’s happening in the world. But many people spend hours each day scrolling, reading, and watching upsetting content, which can significantly increase stress, anxiety, and depression; factors strongly linked to increased eating disorder behaviors. Consider taking intentional breaks from screens, unfollowing accounts that feel misaligned with your values, and actively seeking out content that feels grounding or uplifting.
2. Engage in stress-relieving activities
Support your nervous system. Take a bath, read a book, listen to music, go for a walk, anything that helps your body settle and signals safety. Reducing your stress response can make eating feel more accessible and less overwhelming.
3. Create structure around food
When disordered eating behaviors are loud, routine can be an anchor. Set reminders to eat, keep safe or familiar foods available, and aim for consistency rather than perfection. If you’re experiencing strong cravings, allow yourself to have the food you’re wanting in a mindful way, paired with additional nourishment so your body feels satisfied and cared for.
4. Lean into support
If you work with a therapist, dietitian, or treatment team, reach out and let them know you’re struggling. Right now, I have several clients I’m meeting with more frequently because things feel especially hard. If professional support isn’t available, consider a free support group or reaching out to a trusted friend or family member. If you have support, use it.
5. Remember this truth
No matter what is happening in the world, you deserve to take care of yourself. You always deserve nourishment. While engaging in harmful behaviors may offer a temporary sense of control or relief, they ultimately take power away from you. Gently challenge the thoughts that say hurting yourself is the best option. You are resilient, worthy, and strong, even when the world feels unbearable.
Taking care of yourself is not ignoring reality. It’s an act of resistance, compassion, and survival.
