Eating Disorders from a Christian Counseling Perspective Part 2: External Causes

Part 2 of a 2-Part Eating Disorders – External Causes

This is the last article in my series on the causes of eating disorders. Throughout the last three articles, I have examined the internal and external factors that contribute to developing an eating disorder. I have explored everything from sin and spiritual depravity to the impact of media. In this final article, I will examine the last two external causes of an eating disorder: life circumstances and spiritual adversaries. If you think you may have an eating disorder, please read on to learn how you can know for certain if your eating habits have become a problem.

External Cause #3:  Life Circumstances and Preparedness for Adversity

Abuse, trauma, neglect, and adversity all place pressure on people. Each of us has our own way of responding to or coping with pressure. Difficult circumstances combined with other factors previously mentioned can create the “perfect storm” for to an eating disorder to develop. This can take many forms. Some people “medicate” and anesthetize themselves with activities and/or substances, including food—what we often call “binge eating” or “stress eating.” Others gain a much-desired sense of power through rigid control of food intake, even to the point of emaciation. Still others find eating disorders useful for gaining attention, although usually, at first, they are not aware that this is what they’re doing.

Poor role modeling, education, guidance or discipline in the home robs children of the opportunity to develop the character and skills necessary for a healthy and adaptable adulthood. Too often, people develop dysfunctional thought patterns and behaviors when their needs are not met early in life. It is important to love and nurture children so that they develop a healthy perspective of the body and food.

External Cause #4:  Spiritual Adversaries

The devil is a real foe with whom we must contend; he seeks our enslavement and downfall. However, bear in mind that Satan can only tempt us because of our internal capacity to be tempted. He appeals to us through what our flesh wants to do! (See particularly James 1:14.) Therefore, he uses the most ordinary things to tempt us, including food. Lusts develop through our carelessly chosen and repetitious behaviors.

I believe that the idea of eating disorders was birthed in the heart and mind of the devil and that for years and years and years the world has been systematically seduced into cooperating with his plan. The Standard Western Diet and our culture’s emphasis on beauty and corrupted sexuality are no mere products of chance and the media that perpetuates these falsehoods is no accident. We must understand that eating disorders are orchestrated by the devil to keep us from living in the freedom that God intends.

A Christian Counselor Can Diagnose and Treat Your Eating Disorder

If you or someone you know easily matches one of the DSM criteria (Anorexia, Bulimia, or Binge Eating Disorder), the answer is obvious. However, eating disorders are not limited to any set descriptions. Perhaps you have, or the person in question has, a different blend of symptoms from two or all three classifications. Many people “flip-flop” between disorders. Always remember that an eating disorder will negatively affect your health, relationships, and academic or professional performance.

If you are distressed about your eating habits, you most likely have a problem and should seek help for your condition. Fortunately, you do not have to suffer alone. Christian counseling offers a wonderful opportunity to seek healing from your eating disorder and find wholeness that will last. If you or someone you love is suffering from an eating disorder, please do not hesitate to contact us to learn how Christian Counseling can help. I would be delighted to partner with you on your journey to restored health.

Images
freedigitalphotos.net  – Woman Eating Icecream by Marin