Throwing Up Rainbows Z Zoccolante

Eating disorders, like all addictions, show up with charismatic charm. We invite them in because we’re seduced by the promise of having all we’ve ever wanted. Models and media promote these eating disorders and tell us that if we’re only a little thinner we’ll be happy. They lie.

If you have an addiction, you often see yourself as broken. It seems you just can’t get it together. Here’s the one belief that can change that view.

Addiction is addiction. Eating disorders and substance abuse have a common connection. They affect the brain in a similar way, by dolling out dopamine like a dealer to all the good little girls and boys. Here’s how the dopamine affects the brain and how the brain can heal.

Shame keeps us trapped in addictive patterns. It tells us that we’re a horrible piece of crap failure. It tells us we’re unworthy and unlovable. You can battle that voice and win.

Have you ever been in a room full of people but felt completely empty inside? This is what addiction feels like, the illusion of connection until it hits that you’re alone. This one thing can free you.

One of our deepest human desires is to express ourselves. But how do you know where to begin? Who are you without your eating disorder or addiction?