Could therapy help you lose weight? The psychology of overeating explained

by Stella Stathi

''Just like in other forms of disordered eating, overeating develops as a coping mechanism; a way for people to deal with painful or challenging emotions or situations in their lives, or to satisfy fundamental, unmet needs. However, even though this behaviour can provide momentary relief and escape from intolerable situations, it also triggers negative, self-deprecating feelings, which lead to further episodes of overeating, thus perpetuating a vicious circle of emotional turmoil. 

In the context of a non-judgmental, empathetic therapeutic relationship, you can establish a new way of relating to yourself, with much more compassion, acceptance and understanding of the reasons behind your behaviour. From that place, weight loss can happen naturally, as the need for the mechanism of overeating gradually subsides, while the new coping skills get stronger. When the cause of weight problems is emotional, it is critical for healthy weight loss to happen as a by-product of consistent self-care, profound self-acceptance and emotional balance -not as an exclusive goal to be reached at all costs, and certainly not through punishment or deprivation.''

As featured in RSCPP's article, 'Could therapy help you lose weight? The psychology of overeating explained'. For the whole article, please click here: http://www.rscpp.co.uk/content/features/psychology-overeating.html.