The State of the World is stressful.
As a society, we are pervasively stressed. We live in a fast-paced technology-laden world where our every need and whimsy are immediately available at our fingertips, we are constantly on, and constantly bombarded by messaging. We live in a world where the Surgeon General has released an advisory on the mental health and well-being of parents and caregivers. In a world where war is tearing through nations and a global pandemic claimed millions. We live in a world of judgment and prejudice, where the rights of women and minorities are being taken away, and where fear and hate are rampant. Our bodies have become battlegrounds; our size, shape, color, gender, and sexual orientation are all up for debate by others. We have heard this scrutiny from authorities on the news, extended family members at gatherings, and anonymous persons furiously typing out their opinions. Repeatedly, we are bombarded with the notion that we are inadequate, insignificant, and that mistreating others with disdain, hostility, and aggression is acceptable. Furthermore, many of us also have our own personal trauma histories and pressures to carry, reasons for why we struggle within ourselves and in our relationships. We are stressed, our children are stressed, our bodies are stressed, and it’s doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon.
Stress exacerbates Mental Health problems.
It is human nature to seek refuge from overwhelming stress. We try to cope as best as we can with the tools we have. No matter the initial events that lead to mental illness, stress exacerbates and perpetuates existing problems. Trying to heal is hard work, made even more difficult when we are deeply troubled by the state of the world.
One way we tend to cope is to mentally ‘check out’; we resolve to power through, stay busy, and forego our needs. In eating disorders, this may include seeking out comfort and escape in food.
Another way is to try to ‘fix’ what we believe is in our control to change, such as our appearance. We end up disconnected from and at war with our bodies. We inadvertently do harm to ourselves and start to feel a deep sense of hopelessness and shame.
Eating disorders thrive in our disconnectedness, secrecy, isolation, and in our need to fix or control. Unfortunately, when we use unhealthy coping skills to cope with our pain, we experience temporary relief but ultimately, they lead to long-term harm and cause significant suffering.
Consider taking a moment to reflect on the coping mechanisms you use, the origins of your stress and pain, and whether you've become disconnected from your true self. If something is wrong, your body knows. Slow down, take a deep breath, and listen.