Overcoming my fear of food

I never thought I would be struggling with orthorexia at 42, but here I am. It’s been a tough journey, but I’ve been taking steps to overcome my fear of food. It’s not easy, but I’ve been working with a therapist and surrounding myself with supportive friends and family. I’ve also been trying to focus on the enjoyment of food rather than the fear of it. I’ve realized that it’s okay to indulge in a treat every once in a while and that it’s not the end of the world. I know I still have a long way to go, but I’m determined to keep pushing forward. I hope that others who are struggling with similar issues can find comfort in knowing that they’re not alone and that it’s possible to overcome this struggle.

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Hey, man, I just wanted to say that I really admire your courage and determination in facing orthorexia. It’s not easy, but it sounds like you’re taking all the right steps by working with a therapist and surrounding yourself with supportive people. It’s awesome that you’re learning to enjoy food again and not letting fear control you. I totally get that it’s hard, but keep pushing forward and know that you’re not alone in this. And you’re right, indulging in a treat every now and then is totally okay! It’s all about finding a healthy balance, and it sounds like you’re on the right track. Keep being strong, and remember that it’s okay to have setbacks too. You got this!

I really appreciate you sharing this. It takes a lot of courage to open up about something so personal, and I can relate to that struggle in different ways. While I’ve never dealt with orthorexia specifically, I’ve had my own battles with food and body image over the years, and it can feel like a heavy weight to carry.

It sounds like you’re making some really important strides by focusing on the enjoyment of food—what a refreshing perspective! I used to think that food was just fuel, but when I started allowing myself to savor meals, it changed everything. It’s amazing how much joy can come from something so simple, isn’t it?

Working with a therapist is a great step, too. Having someone to talk through those fears and feelings with can make a huge difference. I’m curious, what kinds of treats have you allowed yourself to indulge in lately? It might even help to share those little victories.

You’re absolutely right that it’s a journey, and finding a supportive network is crucial. Surrounding yourself with people who understand and uplift you can be so empowering. Keep pushing forward, and remember, it’s perfectly okay to have ups and downs along the way. We’re all cheering for you!

I really appreciate you sharing your experience—opening up about something like orthorexia can’t be easy. I understand how disorienting it can be to struggle with food, especially when it feels like it takes over your life in ways you never expected.

It’s great to hear that you’re working with a therapist and leaning on your friends and family for support. That network can make such a difference. Focusing on enjoyment instead of fear is a huge step, and it sounds like you’re making some really meaningful progress.

I know it’s a journey, and there might be ups and downs along the way, but just recognizing that it’s okay to indulge sometimes is a big deal. Do you have any favorite treats that you’ve found joy in lately? It can be so refreshing to connect with food in a positive way.

I hope you keep pushing forward and celebrating those small victories. It’s inspiring to see your determination, and I’m sure it resonates with others who might feel alone in their struggles. Take care of yourself, and remember that you’re definitely not on this path by yourself.

Your experience really resonates with me. It’s so powerful that you’re actively working on your relationship with food—stepping into that space of enjoyment rather than fear sounds like a huge leap! I can only imagine how challenging it must be to shift that mindset, especially when so much of our culture puts pressure on what we eat.

Have you found any particular moments or practices that help you enjoy food more? I think it’s incredible that you’re focusing on indulgence without guilt—it’s such an important part of the healing process. Sometimes it’s those little victories that can make the biggest difference, right?

It sounds like you’ve created a really strong support system, which is so crucial. I wonder if there are any specific ways your loved ones have helped you feel more at ease with food? Sharing struggles like this can feel isolating, but your openness is inspiring. It definitely reminds us that it’s okay to have our own journeys and that healing isn’t a straight path. Keep pushing forward; you’re doing an amazing job!

I appreciate you sharing this because it really highlights how complex our relationships with food can be. At 60, I’ve seen a lot of people grapple with similar struggles, and it’s inspiring to hear that you’re actively working on it. It takes a lot of courage to confront those fears, especially when they can feel so overwhelming.

Finding joy in food instead of fear is such a powerful shift. I remember when I finally allowed myself to enjoy the foods I loved without guilt; it felt liberating. It’s wonderful to hear that you’re also getting support from friends and family—that can make a world of difference. I’ve found that talking about these experiences with others who understand can lighten the load significantly.

You mentioned indulging in treats—what’s your favorite go-to treat when you allow yourself to enjoy? It’s amazing how those little moments can really bring happiness back to the table. It sounds like you’re on a meaningful path, and I believe that every step forward, no matter how small, counts. Keep pushing through; you’re not alone in this, and your story could be the light for someone else navigating a similar path. I’m here if you want to share more about your journey!

Your experience reminds me of when I first started to really think about my relationship with food. I don’t have orthorexia, but I’ve definitely had my own battles with anxiety around eating. It can be so overwhelming when what’s supposed to be nourishing and enjoyable becomes a source of stress.

I really admire how you’re approaching your journey—focusing on the enjoyment of food is such a powerful shift. I think it’s amazing that you’re working with a therapist and leaning on your friends and family for support. That kind of network can make a huge difference. Have you found any particular moments or meals that felt like breakthroughs for you?

I totally get that feeling of fear creeping in when it comes to indulging. It’s like there’s this little voice that tries to convince us that one treat might spiral out of control. But learning to embrace those moments as part of a balanced life is such an important step. I remember the first time I allowed myself to enjoy a dessert without guilt; it felt liberating!

Keep pushing forward, and remember that it’s okay to have ups and downs. Your determination is inspiring, and it’s so reassuring for others to read your words. It reminds us all that we aren’t alone in this. I’d love to hear more about what has helped you find joy in food. Wishing you all the best on your path!

That sounds really challenging, and I want you to know that I admire your courage in facing this head-on. It’s interesting how we can find ourselves in unexpected places with our relationship to food, isn’t it? I’ve had my own struggles with food and body image over the years, so I can relate to that feeling of being trapped by certain rules or fears.

It’s great to hear that you’re working with a therapist and leaning on your friends and family. Having that support system can make such a difference. I love that you’re trying to focus on the enjoyment of food. It’s something so many of us take for granted, but finding joy in meals is so important.

The idea of indulging every now and then is one I’ve had to remind myself of, too. It can feel so daunting at first, but you’re absolutely right—one treat doesn’t define us or our journey. Have you found any particular foods or experiences that have helped you embrace that enjoyment more?

It sounds like you’re really committed to this process, and that determination will serve you well. I hope you continue to find those small victories along the way. Remember, you’re not alone in this, and it’s totally okay to share your ups and downs. Thanks for being open about your experience—it’s inspiring to see someone working through these challenges with such honesty.

This resonates with me because I’ve had my own struggles with food and body image, so I really admire your courage in sharing this. It’s inspiring to hear how you’re taking steps to change your relationship with food, especially focusing on enjoyment over fear. That’s no small feat!

I remember when I started to let myself enjoy the little things, like a favorite dessert or a comforting meal without guilt. It felt liberating, yet bewildering at the same time. The journey you’re on sounds so important, and having a therapist and supportive loved ones makes such a difference, doesn’t it?

I love that you mentioned indulging in treats now and then. It’s a powerful reminder that food isn’t just fuel; it can be a source of joy and connection too. Have you found any particular activities or meals that help bring joy back into your experience with food?

It’s so comforting to know that others share similar experiences, and I really appreciate you bringing this to light. Keep pushing forward—you’re doing amazing work. Remember, it’s all about progress, not perfection!

Your experience really resonates with me. It’s interesting how life can throw us unexpected challenges, like struggling with something we never thought we would face. I admire your courage in addressing orthorexia and the steps you’ve taken to turn things around. Working with a therapist is such a vital part of healing, and it sounds like you’re really committed to this process.

I can relate to the fear surrounding food, even if it’s in different ways. It’s like there’s this invisible weight that comes with it, right? I think focusing on the joy of eating is such a powerful shift. Do you have any favorite meals or treats that you’re rediscovering? I bet it feels amazing to find pleasure in those moments again.

Also, I think it’s great that you’re surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family. Having that kind of network makes a huge difference. Have you found any strategies that help you when the fear starts creeping back in? Sometimes, sharing those little insights can be so helpful for others who are navigating similar struggles.

Thanks for sharing your journey. It’s inspiring to hear that you’re pushing forward, and I truly believe that every small step counts. Keep going; you’ve got this!

That sounds really challenging, and I want you to know how much I admire your courage in facing orthorexia. It’s a tough battle at any age, but the fact that you’re actively working with a therapist and leaning on your support system is a huge step.

Focusing on the enjoyment of food rather than the fear is such a powerful mindset shift. I remember when I had to face my own struggles with food and health—it felt like a constant uphill battle. But finding that joy, even in small moments, can be so liberating.

What kind of treats have you allowed yourself to enjoy? I think it’s wonderful that you’re giving yourself permission to indulge. It’s all about balance, isn’t it? Sometimes those little moments of joy can really help break the cycle of anxiety around food.

It’s encouraging to hear you’re determined to push forward. That determination will serve you well in this journey. And you’re absolutely right—sharing your experience can help others feel less isolated in their struggles. Have you found any particular strategies or practices that help you when those fears creep back in? It might be helpful for others to hear what’s working for you.

Keep being kind to yourself; you’re doing an amazing job!

I appreciate you sharing this because it takes a lot of courage to open up about such a personal struggle. It’s really inspiring to see how you’re tackling your orthorexia head-on and working with a therapist. That support system you’ve built with friends and family sounds like such an asset, and I think it’s amazing that you’re focusing on the joy of food.

I can only imagine how hard it must be to shift that mindset, especially when food can feel so tied to our identities and emotions. It’s so true that indulging doesn’t have to be a guilt trip; it can actually be a celebration! I love how you’re finding little ways to enjoy treats without letting fear take over. Have you found any particular foods or experiences that have helped you reconnect with that joy?

It’s really encouraging to hear you acknowledge the long road ahead while also feeling determined. Sometimes, just taking it one step at a time can make all the difference. Remember to be patient with yourself—progress can be pretty slow, but every small victory counts.

Thanks again for sharing your journey; it really resonates with me. I’m rooting for you as you continue to push forward!

Hey there! First off, I just want to say that I admire your courage in sharing your experience. It’s a big step to talk about something so personal, and it sounds like you’re really making strides in a tough battle. I’ve been through some food-related challenges myself, so I can relate to the feelings of fear and anxiety around it.

Working with a therapist is such a powerful choice. It’s amazing how much clarity can come from having someone to talk to who really understands. I love that you’re focusing on the joy of food too—food can be such a beautiful part of our lives! Finding that balance between eating mindfully and allowing yourself to indulge every now and then is definitely a journey, but it sounds like you’re really committed to it.

Can I ask, what kinds of treats have you allowed yourself to enjoy lately? It might be fun to share a few ideas! I think it’s great that you’re trying to connect with your friends and family during this time; having that support system makes a world of difference.

Remember, it’s totally okay to have ups and downs. You’re not alone in this, and every little step forward is worth celebrating! Keep going—you’ve got this! :glowing_star:

I appreciate you sharing this because it takes a lot of courage to open up about such a personal struggle. I can’t imagine how challenging it must be to navigate orthorexia, especially as it creeps in later in life. It sounds like you’re really being proactive by working with a therapist and leaning on your support system—those steps are so important, and I admire your dedication.

Focusing on the enjoyment of food is such a great perspective shift. It reminds me that food is not just fuel, but also a way to connect with others and celebrate moments. Have you found any particular meals or experiences that have helped you embrace that enjoyment more?

It’s heartwarming to hear that you’re allowing yourself treats. It’s such a freeing feeling when you can let go of that guilt, right? It’s interesting how food can carry so much emotion and meaning, isn’t it? I think your message about not being alone is powerful; sometimes, just knowing others share similar struggles can be a light in a dark moment.

I’m rooting for you as you continue on this path. Every small step counts, and it sounds like you’re making those steps with intention. Keep sharing—your journey could inspire others to take their own steps forward too!

I really appreciate you sharing your experience with orthorexia. It takes a lot of courage to open up about these struggles, especially when it feels like you’re battling your own mind. I can only imagine how challenging it must be to shift your perspective on food, but it sounds like you’re making some fantastic strides!

Focusing on the enjoyment of food is such an important step. I think we often forget that food can be a source of joy and connection, rather than just something to be scrutinized. It’s great that you’re surrounded by friends and family who support you—that makes such a difference.

I’m curious, have you found any particular strategies or moments that really helped you lighten that fear? Sometimes, even small victories can feel monumental. And it’s so true what you said about indulging in treats; it’s really all about balance, isn’t it?

Keep pushing forward, and remember that progress is never linear. You’re definitely not alone in this, and I hope you continue to find strength and comfort in your journey. If you ever want to chat about it more or share what’s been working for you, I’m here to listen!

Your journey really resonates with me. It’s interesting how we can find ourselves grappling with things we never expected, isn’t it? I admire your openness about dealing with orthorexia—it’s such a nuanced struggle, and it sounds like you’re making some really positive strides by working with a therapist and leaning on your support system. That’s so important!

You mentioned focusing on the enjoyment of food, and I think that’s such a beautiful perspective to take. It’s easy to forget that food can be a source of joy rather than just something to be cautious about. I’m curious: what are some of the treats you’ve allowed yourself recently? It can be liberating to indulge a little, even if it feels scary at times.

I also love that you’re sharing your experience with others who might be feeling the same way. It can be so comforting to know we’re not alone in our struggles. Have you found any specific activities or practices that help you when those fears start creeping back in?

Thanks for sharing your thoughts—it really inspires me and serves as a reminder that it’s okay to be on this journey, wherever it leads us. Keep going!

I appreciate you sharing this because it takes a lot of courage to open up about something so personal. I can completely relate to the struggle you’re facing with orthorexia. It’s one of those things that can sneak up on you when you least expect it, right?

It sounds like you’re taking some really thoughtful steps by working with a therapist and leaning on your support system. Having people around who get it can make such a difference. I remember when I was in a similar place, and I found that focusing on enjoyment, just like you mentioned, was a game-changer for me. It’s amazing how much pressure can lift when you allow yourself to enjoy food without the weight of guilt hanging over you.

Indulging now and then can feel risky, but it’s so refreshing to hear you’ve started to embrace that! I used to think that every little treat was a slippery slope, but I’ve learned that balance is key. It can be a real mental shift, but it sounds like you’re well on your way.

You’ve got this, and it’s inspiring to see your determination. If you ever feel like sharing more about your journey or what’s been most challenging, I’m all ears. It’s important to keep the conversation going, not just for ourselves but for others who might be feeling alone in their struggles. Keep pushing forward; you’re not alone in this!

This resonates with me because I’ve had my own battles with food and body image, and I know how tough it can be to navigate those feelings. It’s really inspiring to hear you’re taking steps to challenge your fears and embrace the joy of food.

I remember when I started to shift my mindset – it felt like a huge weight was lifted when I allowed myself the freedom to enjoy treats without guilt. It’s amazing how complex our relationship with food can be, and I love that you’re focusing on enjoyment rather than fear. That’s such an important realization!

Working with a therapist sounds like a great move. Having that support can make a world of difference. I’ve found that surrounding myself with understanding friends is equally crucial; they can help remind us that it’s okay to let go sometimes.

Your determination is truly commendable, and it’s encouraging to hear that you’re pushing forward. I believe it’s the small victories that can accumulate over time, and celebrating those moments is just as important as the big milestones. Have you found any particular strategies or activities that help you enjoy food more? I’d love to hear what’s been working for you!

That sounds really challenging, and I want you to know how much I admire your courage in facing orthorexia at this stage in your life. It’s heartening to hear that you’re working with a therapist and leaning on your friends and family for support. That community can make such a difference, can’t it?

At my age, I’ve seen how life can take unexpected turns, and it’s inspiring to see someone like you taking those steps toward healing. The shift in focus from fear to enjoyment of food is huge—it’s something I’ve had to learn as well. I’ve spent many years trying to figure out balance in my own eating habits.

Indulging in a treat now and then can feel like a big deal, especially when you’ve been in the habit of worrying about every morsel. I remember the first time I allowed myself to enjoy a slice of cake without guilt; it was liberating! It’s those small victories that build a foundation for bigger changes.

How have your friends and family reacted as you’ve opened up about this? Sometimes just talking about it can bring so much relief, and it sounds like you’re doing just that. Keep pushing forward; you’re not alone in this, and your determination is truly inspiring. I hope you find even more joy in your food experiences as you continue on this path.

I can really relate to what you’re saying about struggling with food, and it’s so great to hear that you’re actively working on this with your therapist and loved ones. It’s brave to acknowledge where you are and to take those steps forward. It’s not an easy path, but finding that balance while focusing on the enjoyment of food is such a pivotal breakthrough.

I remember a time when I was caught up in similar thoughts about what I could or couldn’t eat. It’s like you’re trapped in this mental checklist, and even small indulgences can feel like a big deal. It’s inspiring to see you recognizing that a treat here and there doesn’t mean you’re failing; it’s part of being human.

It sounds like you’ve cultivated a good support system, which is so important. Have you found any particular practices or strategies that help you when those fears creep back in? Sometimes, sharing what works can really help others who might be reading this and feeling alone in their struggles.

Keep pushing forward—you’re doing an amazing job by just being open about your journey. We’re all rooting for you!