Having an eating disorder is not easy. Resisting the urge to purge, restrict food, over-exercise, and emotionally eat, can be very difficult. Sometimes it is helpful to have a list of alternatives on hand, just in case. It does not mean that you always will be able to choose an alternative listed below instead of a behavior, but having a plan/list on hand can help. The following suggestions might be helpful for you:
WHAT COULD I DO INSTEAD OF MY BEHAVIORS?
- Call or text a friend/family member on the phone
- Go to a friend’s house
- Write in a journal
- Take a walk
- Go run an errand, to the mall, or your favorite store
- Read a magazine or book
- E-mail a friend
- Write all of the positive things you can think of
- Wash your car
- Make a collage
- Watch a good video
- Hit a pillow
- Crochet or knit
- Chew gum
- Search the Web
- Draw or color with crayons
- Have a cup of coffee or tea
- Take a drive in the country
- Buy something under $5.00 for yourself
- Paint
- Color in a coloring book or use crayons