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
Go to a healthy eating disorder website like “Something Fishy.”