What is the Root Cause of People Pleasing?

Have you ever found yourself constantly going above and beyond to please others, even at the expense of your own well-being? You might sruggle with people-pleasing.  It's a common struggle many people face and it can leave you feeling anxious and overwhelmed. But have you ever wondered why we have this strong urge to please others? What lies beneath the surface, driving this behavior?  Everyone has unique experiences and reasons for their people- pleasing. However, one of the areas I would like to focus on is how anxiety is one of the root causes, and how anxiety therapy can help people pleasing. 

Anxiety and people-pleasing

Anxiety often lies at the core of people-pleasing tendencies. Anxiety’s main job is to alert us to potential dangers. However, in social situations, anxiety can make us choose the easiest path to avoid discomfort. If you are a people-pleaser, you may sacrifice your own needs and conform to what others want, all in an attempt to reduce the risk of rejection, criticism or potential conflict.  People-pleasing provides temporary relief from anxiety and a sense of safety, but it comes at a cost. You end up neglecting your own needs, suppressing who you truly are, and it impacts your self-esteem.  Recognizing this connection between anxiety and people-pleasing is crucial for breaking free from this cycle. 

Reasons for people-pleasing:

Everyone has their own reasons for people pleasing. These are a few examples of people-pleasing related to anxiety.

Fear of Rejection

The fear of rejection is a significant driver of people-pleasing. Many people-pleasers feel anxious at the thought of someone being upset with them. To avoid conflict, they go to great lengths to keep everyone happy, even overextending themselves. They put their own needs and wishes aside to keep the peace or to be accepted by others. This fear of rejection reinforces the belief that worth depends on pleasing others, making the cycle of anxiety and people-pleasing worse.

Sensitivity to Anxiety

Some people not only fear rejection but also are more sensitive to anxiety itself. The worry and discomfort that come with anxiety can make the cycle of people-pleasing even stronger. The fear of experiencing anxiety can push them to go above and beyond to avoid any uncomfortable feelings, which further perpetuates the pattern of people-pleasing. 

Need for Validation

Everyone needs to feel seen and validated. For those that experience people-pleasing, the need for validation might be even strong. When efforts to please others don't result in the desired approval or recognition, it can be disheartening and exacerbate their anxiety. This disappointment pushes them to work even harder to gain validation. 

Worry about the future

Worrying about the future is a common struggle for people-pleasers, causing considerable anxiety. Constantly anticipating situations where they might let someone down or fail to meet expectations can be overwhelming. This worry about the future keeps them trapped in a cycle of striving to please others, often going above and beyond what is reasonable or healthy.

Trauma and people-pleasing

I think of anxiety as a symptom of something greater. Past trauma or painful experiences can have a strong influence on anxiety and people-pleasing tendencies. These people-pleasing tendencies have also become ways to control anxiety in these situations.  When someone has been through difficult or traumatic events, it can shape how they behave and think. These experiences can make them extra sensitive to potential harm, conflict, rejection, or being left alone. Their past painful experiences may have taught them that if they are compliant or do what others somehow makes it easier. 

To cope with the impact of their past trauma, you may feel a strong urge to please others. You constantly strive to keep everyone happy, avoid arguments, and put others' needs ahead of their own. By doing so, they try to create a sense of safety and control in their environment.

Anxiety Therapy in Utah for people pleasing

If you have found you put others’ needs above your own as a way of dealing with anxiety, know that you are not alone. Many of the women I work with feel the same way. It’s possible to change these patterns through anxiety counseling. Anxiety therapy offers a way to work through all of these struggles.  As an anxiety therapist, I help unravel the links between anxiety and people-pleasing. Together, we work towards ways of coping that suit you best, enabling you to manage situations without the burden of excessive people-pleasing.

Start working with an anxiety therapist in Utah

 Ready to break free from the cycle of people-pleasing and anxiety? Don't let anxiety hold you back any longer. Anxiety therapy can help. This Utah Counseling Clinic has an anxiety therapist who specializes in helping people-pleasing. To begin anxiety treatment follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a therapist for anxiety

3. Find relief from people pleasing

The Complete Guide to Overcoming Perfectionism

As an anxiety therapist, I know firsthand how perfectionism and anxiety can be closely linked, creating a sense of constant pressure to achieve unrealistic standards. If you're reading this, you might be struggling with perfectionism and looking for ways to cope. You might feel like you're always falling short or you're worried about what might happen if you make a mistake. That's ok, and I want you to know that anxiety therapy can help. In this guide, we will explore what perfectionism is, why it's often connected with anxiety, and how you can learn to manage it. Remember, overcoming perfectionism is a journey, and while it may be challenging, it is certainly possible. 

Can you overcome perfectionism?

Absolutely, you can overcome perfectionism. I understand that it can be challenging, especially if you're always aiming to get things just right. But remember, nobody is perfect. That's part of being human. One of the first steps to overcoming perfectionism is realizing that it's okay to make mistakes. Mistakes are how we learn and grow. It's not about never failing. Another important thing is to start setting realistic goals. It's okay if you can't accomplish everything at the highest level all the time. Focus more on progress rather than flawlessness. Try not to compare yourself with others. Everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. You don’t have to be good at everything. Overcoming perfectionism can take time and it's okay to seek help. You might find it useful to talk to an anxiety therapist, who can provide you with ideas and tools to manage your perfectionism.

Perfectionism and anxiety are often linked. When we talk about perfectionism, it refers to setting really high goals for oneself and feeling a lot of pressure to reach them. This endless chase for perfection can lead to increased anxiety. Anxiety therapy can be a helpful tool in managing perfectionism.

What does it mean to be a perfectionist?

If you're a perfectionist, you might often worry about making mistakes or fear being criticized. You might like being in control a lot. As an anxiety therapist, I see that this type of thinking can lead to a constant feeling of worry and discomfort. The fear of not meeting your own standards can be scary and make you feel anxious, stressed, and sometimes, stuck because of the fear of failing.

Being a perfectionist can also make you criticize yourself a lot. If you always hold yourself to incredibly high standards, you might always find problems in what you do or how capable you are. This can make you feel a lot of anxiety because you feel like you never do well enough. This isn't good for your mental health. It's key to remember that perfectionism can look different for everyone. Some people might want to be perfect in their jobs or school, while others might focus on how they look, their friendships, or other parts of their life. No matter what, the underlying worry and pressure to be perfect are the same.

Is perfectionism linked to anxiety?

Sometimes, people use perfectionism as a way to manage their anxiety. Even though it might not seem to make sense, some people think that if they strive for perfection, they can feel more in control of their anxiety and reduce the chance of anything bad happening. Here are some ways people might use perfectionism to cope:

Control

People who are perfectionists might think that if they can control everything in their life, they can reduce the things that make them anxious. They might try to control their surroundings, their relationships, or even their own thoughts to feel more secure.

Avoiding Failure or Criticism

Perfectionists might think that if they are perfect or get lots of compliments, they can avoid being judged, criticized, or rejected. They might see mistakes as personal failures, which can make their anxiety worse. By trying to be perfect, they hope to avoid these negative things.

Looking for Validation

Perfectionists often depend on approval from others to feel good about themselves. They might think that if they can reach really high standards, others will admire them. This can temporarily make their anxiety better.

Reducing Uncertainty

Perfectionists might plan a lot, prepare a lot, or check things over and over to reduce the uncertainty that makes them anxious. They might feel like they have to check their work again and again, ask for reassurance, or do a lot of research to make sure everything is perfect, leaving no chance for mistakes or surprises.

What is the root cause of perfectionism?

Perfectionism is something that many people, especially women I work with, struggle with. It comes from a strong want to be flawless and a big fear of failing. But what causes this ongoing chase for perfection? As an anxiety therapist, I believe that by understanding the link between anxiety symptoms and perfectionism, you can understand yourself better and find improved ways to manage anxiety.

Anxiety often is a main cause of perfectionism. Here are some ways that anxiety leads to trying to be perfect:

• Fear of Failing and Being Criticized

Anxiety stirs up a deep fear of making mistakes or being seen in a bad light by others. Perfectionists often think that any failure or flaw will lead to rejection, embarrassment, disappointment, or judgment from others. Because of this, they try to be perfect to avoid or reduce these fears. Anxiety treatment can help you understand where this fear of judgment comes from.

• Need for Control and Certainty

Anxiety is often driven by a need for control and a wish to avoid things that are uncertain. Perfectionists, pushed by their anxieties, want to control their environment, actions, and outcomes. They think that if they can be perfect, they can prevent potential symptoms of anxiety and use control to help deal with their anxiety.

• Catastrophic Thinking and Biased Thinking

Anxiety often leads to distorted and catastrophic thinking. Perfectionists tend to think in an all-or-nothing way, seeing situations as either perfect or total failures with no in-between. They may also make a big deal out of their mistakes, using one error as proof that they're not capable or not good enough. These incorrect thoughts increase anxiety and make perfectionistic behaviors worse. Working with an anxiety therapist can help you change how you think and how you view yourself.

• Unrealistic Standards and Self-Criticism

Perfectionists driven by anxiety set really high standards for themselves. They always try to meet or exceed these standards because they're afraid of falling short. The fear of making a mistake or being judged harshly by others makes them criticize themselves more, reinforcing the belief that they must be perfect. When people go to anxiety counseling, they learn where these unrealistic standards come from and find ways to be nicer to themselves.

• Anxious Thoughts About Outcomes

Anxiety can make people worry more about potential negative outcomes. Perfectionists often overthink and plan excessively to prevent mistakes or prepare for every possible outcome. They worry about the future a lot, always thinking about what could happen if they're not perfect. Anxiety therapy can help you manage your anxiety and fear of outcomes in a better way.

How Do You Calm Perfectionism Anxiety?

Striving for perfection can feel like walking a tightrope. While it's good to aim high and hold yourself to high standards, it can also create a lot of stress and worry. To lessen this kind of anxiety, we have to change the way we think and learn better coping skills. It's important to remember that being perfect is impossible and making mistakes is a part of growing. By learning to accept flaws, people can start to ease the pressure they put on themselves.

It's not a quick process to overcome perfectionism, so remember to be patient with yourself. Here are some tips that might help:

• Create achievable goals: Perfectionists often set unreachable standards. It's important to set realistic goals and remember that perfection isn't always possible. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on making progress and improving.

• Challenge negative thoughts: Perfectionism can lead to unrealistic thoughts and beliefs. Remember, your thoughts are not always facts. Learn to recognize and challenge these thoughts. Ask yourself if they are based on reality or if they are distorted by perfectionism. Replace negative self-talk with more positive and realistic messages.

• Learn from mistakes: Perfectionists often fear mistakes. Recognize that making mistakes is a part of learning and growing. Use mistakes as opportunities to improve.

• Be kind to yourself: Learn to practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would give to a friend. Everyone has limitations and makes mistakes, and that's okay.

• Break big tasks into smaller ones: Perfectionists can feel overwhelmed by big tasks, causing stress or procrastination. Breaking down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps can help. Focus on completing one step at a time and celebrate your progress.

• Make self-care a priority: Do things that help you relax and reduce stress. Take breaks when needed, practice deep breathing, get regular exercise, and make sure to get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet. Looking after your overall health can help lessen anxiety.

• Challenge perfectionism directly: Spend time on activities where it's okay not to be perfect, like drawing or writing. Slowly expose yourself to situations where things won't be perfect, and learn how to deal with any anxiety that comes up.

• Consider anxiety therapy: If you need it, I am an anxiety therapist who can help. I can help you understand why you strive for perfection and give you ways to manage anxiety. I can offer strategies specifically tailored to you and your experience with anxiety.

What is the best therapy for perfectionism? 

When you're struggling with trying to be perfect all the time, finding the right kind of help can make a big difference. There are two types of therapy that are really good at helping with this. They're called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). As a therapist, I've seen how much these can help people.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is all about helping you become more flexible in your thinking and to lead a life that is in line with what's most important to you. The idea behind ACT is that when we try to avoid or control our unwanted thoughts or feelings, it can cause us to suffer. ACT helps you to accept these thoughts and feelings as normal and to focus on taking action that aligns with your values.

There are several key parts to ACT:

• Acceptance: This means accepting your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment or trying to change them.

• Cognitive Defusion: This is about learning to see thoughts as just thoughts, rather than facts. This can help you separate from thoughts that are not helpful or are self-critical.

• Mindfulness: Mindfulness is about paying attention to the present moment in a non-judgmental way. This can help you respond better to challenging thoughts and feelings.

• Values Clarification: This is about identifying what's most important to you in your life. By aligning your actions with these values, you can make choices that are meaningful to you, rather than being driven by fear of failure or a need to be perfect.

• Committed Action: This is about taking action that aligns with your values, even when you're dealing with uncomfortable thoughts or feelings.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another type of therapy that can be very helpful. It was first developed to help with trauma, but it can also help with perfectionism, especially if it's rooted in past experiences or memories.

EMDR can help you deal with experiences that contribute to your need for control, fear of failure, or self-critical thoughts. By working on these memories, EMDR helps to reduce strong emotions and changes negative beliefs about yourself.

EMDR can also address negative beliefs about yourself that fuel perfectionism, such as "I am not good enough" or "I must be perfect to be valued." Through this process, you can develop more self-compassion, self-acceptance, and healthier standards for yourself.

It's important to remember that EMDR should be done with a therapist, as it involves working through potentially distressing memories. An anxiety therapist can provide a safe and supportive space to help you navigate these emotions.

Anxiety therapy in Utah can help you overcome perfectionism

As an anxiety therapist, I understand that perfectionism can often feel like a heavy weight, making every task seem challenging. If you're in Utah and grappling with this, know that help is available. Anxiety therapy can provide you with the tools to navigate through your perfectionistic tendencies, helping you to set more realistic expectations for yourself, and learn to embrace imperfections. By reaching out to an anxiety therapist in Utah, you're taking an important step in overcoming perfectionism, and towards a healthier, more balanced life.

How to begin working with an anxiety therapist in Utah

You don’t have to keep trying to do this alone. You deserve help from someone who gets it and know how to help you. To begin anxiety treatment follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a therapist for anxiety

3. Start feeling better

What is the Best Therapy for Perfectionism?

Finding the right anxiety therapy for perfectionism anxiety is important when you are struggling with perfectionism. Two effective therapy approaches for perfectionism are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). ACT focuses on accepting internal experiences, challenging unhelpful thoughts, and aligning actions with personal values, while EMDR targets distressing memories to reduce their negative impact. As an anxiety therapist, I know how both ACT and EMDR can be helpful to perfectionists.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for Perfectionism Anxiety

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic approach that aims to help people develop psychological flexibility and lead a more values-driven life. ACT is grounded in the belief that suffering arises from the struggle to avoid or control unwanted thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It encourages you to accept these internal experiences as a normal part of being human and to focus on taking committed action toward what truly matters to you

ACT incorporates several key components:

• Acceptance:

  ACT emphasizes accepting one's thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment or attempts to change or suppress them. This acceptance allows you to make room for these experiences and let them come and go without becoming entangled in them.

• Cognitive Defusion:

  Cognitive defusion involves learning to observe thoughts as mental events rather than facts. By recognizing that thoughts are not necessarily accurate or true, you can create distance from unhelpful or self-critical thoughts associated with perfectionism.

• Mindfulness:

  Mindfulness practices are central to ACT. Mindfulness involves intentionally bringing your attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and non-judgment. It helps you cultivate awareness of their internal experiences, allowing them to respond more flexibly to challenging perfectionistic thoughts and anxiety.

• Values Clarification:

  ACT focuses on identifying and clarifying personal values—the qualities and behaviors that you deem important and meaningful in your life. By aligning actions with these values, you can make choices that are consistent with their core principles and move toward a more fulfilling life rather than a fear of failure or the need to be flawless. 

• Committed Action:

  ACT encourages you to take meaningful action guided by your values, even in the presence of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings including anxiety. This involves setting goals and engaging in behaviors that reflect personal values, regardless of perfectionistic tendencies or anxiety.

EMDR Therapy for Perfectionism Anxiety

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a specialized therapeutic approach that was initially developed to address a traumatic event.  However, it can also be helpful in addressing perfectionism, particularly when perfectionistic tendencies are rooted in past experiences, traumatic events, or painful memories. 

EMDR therapy focuses on the reprocessing of distressing memories and experiences to reduce their negative impact on your present thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The underlying idea is that unresolved or unprocessed memories contribute to the development of unhealthy ways of coping such as perfectionistic tendencies. 

During an EMDR session, the anxiety therapist guides you in recalling specific distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, which can involve eye movements, taps, or sounds. This bilateral stimulation is needed in order to do deep processing of the memory, allowing it to be integrated in a more helpful and less distressing way.

For perfectionism, EMDR can help you identify and process underlying traumatic or painful experiences that contribute to your excessive need for control, fear of failure, or self-critical thoughts. By targeting these memories, EMDR therapy works to reduce the strong emotions that come up and changes the negative beliefs about yourself. 

EMDR therapy can also address negative self-beliefs that fuel perfectionism, such as "I am not good enough" or "I must be perfect to be valued." By reprocessing these beliefs, you can develop more self-compassion, self-acceptance, and healthier standards for yourself. It's important to note that EMDR therapy is typically conducted by a therapist as it involves working through potentially distressing memories. An anxiety therapist or EMDR therapist can create a safe and supportive space to guide you through the reprocessing process and help you navigate the emotions that come up. 

Anxiety therapy in Utah can help perfectionists 

Anxiety therapy in Utah can be really helpful for perfectionists. In anxiety therapy, you get a safe and supportive space to talk about your perfectionism and anxiety. An anxiety therapist can help you understand why you feel the need to be perfect and teach you ways to manage your anxiety symptoms. You can learn to set realistic goals, challenge negative thoughts, and be kinder to yourself. Anxiety treatment can teach you to accept mistakes, take care of yourself, and find ways to calm your anxiety. With the help of an anxiety counselor, you can learn to feel better and be happier with who you are.

Start working with an anxiety therapist in Utah 

Ready to find relief from anxiety and perfectionism? Take the first step towards a happier and healthier life by scheduling an appointment with an anxiety therapist today. Don't let anxiety hold you back—reach out to an anxiety counselor and start your journey towards a more fulfilling life. To begin anxiety therapy follow these steps: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a therapist for anxiety

3. Find relief from perfectionism 

How Do You Calm Perfectionism Anxiety?

Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword. While striving for excellence and high standards can be admirable, it can also lead to overwhelming anxiety and self-criticism. Calming perfectionism anxiety requires a shift in mindset and adopting healthier coping strategies. By recognizing that perfection is unattainable and embracing imperfection as part of the learning process, individuals can find relief from the burdens of constant self-judgment. Through setting realistic expectations, challenging negative thoughts, practicing self-compassion, breaking tasks into smaller steps, prioritizing self-care, challenging perfectionistic behaviors, and seeking anxiety therapy when needed, it becomes possible to calm the anxiety symptoms associated with perfectionism.

Overcoming perfectionism is a process that takes time and practice. Be patient with yourself.  Coping with perfectionism anxiety can be challenging, but there are several strategies you can try to help calm your mind and reduce the negative impact of perfectionism. Here are some ideas that may be helpful:

1. Set realistic expectations

Perfectionists often set unattainable standards for themselves. Practice setting realistic goals and accepting that perfection is not always achievable. Focus on progress and improvement rather than demanding flawlessness.

2. Challenge your negative thoughts

Perfectionism is often fueled by irrational thoughts and beliefs. Remember thoughts are not facts and that means they aren’t necessarily true.  Learn to identify and challenge these thoughts by asking yourself if they are based on facts or if they are distorted by perfectionistic thinking. Replace negative self-talk with more realistic and positive statements.

3. Embrace mistakes and failures

Perfectionists tend to fear mistakes and failure. Recognize that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growth. Embrace failures as valuable opportunities for personal development. Learn from them and use them as stepping stones toward improvement.

4. Practice self-compassion

Be kind to yourself and cultivate self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same understanding and support you would offer to a friend. Remember that nobody is perfect, and it's okay to have limitations and make mistakes. 

5. Break tasks into smaller steps

Perfectionists often feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of a task, leading to procrastination or anxiety. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Focus on completing one step at a time, celebrating your progress along the way.

6. Prioritize self-care

Engage in activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction. Take breaks when needed, practice deep breathing exercises, engage in physical activity, and make sure to get enough sleep and maintain a balanced diet. Taking care of your overall well-being can help alleviate perfectionism anxiety.

7. Challenge perfectionistic behaviors

Engage in behaviors that challenge perfectionism directly. Set aside time for activities where you intentionally allow imperfection, such as drawing, painting, or writing without aiming for perfection. Gradually expose yourself to situations where you can practice accepting less-than-perfect outcomes, and use coping skills to deal with anxiety as it comes up. 

8. Seek anxiety treatment

Consider talking to an anxiety therapist or anxiety counselor who can help you explore the underlying causes of your perfectionism and provide guidance on managing anxiety. They can offer tailored strategies and techniques to address your individual experience with anxiety. 

Anxiety therapy in Utah can help calm perfectionism anxiety

Anxiety therapy in Utah can be beneficial for women struggling with perfectionism. Anxiety therapy sessions provide a safe and supportive place where you can talk about your struggle with perfectionism and how it relates to anxiety.  An anxiety counselor can help you understand the root causes of your perfectionism and teach you ways to manage it. Anxiety treatment can help you in setting realistic goals, challenge negative thoughts, and practice self-compassion. Through anxiety therapy, you can learn to embrace mistakes and develop healthier ways of thinking and coping with anxiety. Remember, anxiety therapy is a process that takes time, but it can be a valuable tool in finding relief from perfectionism-related anxiety.

Begin meeting with an anxiety therapist in Utah

You don’t have to deal with your perfectionism anxiety alone. Anxiety therapy can help. This Utah Counseling Clinic has an anxiety therapist that specializes in treating perfectionism. To begin anxiety treatment follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a therapist for anxiety

3. Break away from perfectionism

What’s the Root Cause of Perfectionism?

Perfectionism is a trait that many of the women I work with grapple with, driven by a strong desire for flawlessness and an intense fear of failure. But what lies at the root of this persistent pursuit of perfection? Anxiety therapy can shed light on the causes that contribute to these perfectionistic tendencies. In this blog, we will explore how perfectionism unravels the impact of anxiety on fear of failure, the need for control, cognitive biases, unrealistic standards, intense self-criticism, the anticipation of consequences, and more.  As an anxiety therapist, I believe delving into the relationship between symptoms of anxiety and perfectionism, you can gain more insight into yourself and find better ways of coping with anxiety.

Anxiety often serves as one of the root causes underlying the development of perfectionism. Here are some ways in which anxiety contributes to perfectionistic tendencies:

1. Fear of Failure and Criticism

Anxiety fuels a deep-seated fear of making mistakes or being seen negatively by others. Perfectionists often believe that any imperfection or failure will result in rejection, humiliation, disappointment, or judgment from others. As a result, they strive for perfection as a way to prevent or minimize these anxieties. Anxiety treatment can help you work through where the fear of judgment might stem from. 

2. Need for Control and Certainty

Anxiety is frequently driven by a need for control and a desire to avoid uncertainty. Perfectionists, driven by their anxieties, seek to have control over their environment, actions, and outcomes. They believe that if they can achieve perfection, they can prevent potential anxiety symptoms and use control as a way of coping with anxiety. 

2. Catastrophic Thinking and Cognitive Biases

Anxiety often leads to cognitive distortions and catastrophic thinking patterns. Perfectionists tend to engage in all-or-nothing thinking, believing situations as either perfect or complete failure with no middle ground. They may also make a bigger deal of their mistakes, using a single error as evidence to support that they are incompetent or not good enough. These untrue thoughts intensify anxiety and further increase perfectionistic behaviors. Working with an anxiety therapist can help you change your thinking and beliefs about yourself. 

3. Unrealistic Standards and Intense Self-Criticism

Anxiety-driven perfectionists set unreasonably high standards for themselves. They constantly strive to meet or exceed these standards, driven by a relentless fear of falling short. The fear of making a mistake or being judged harshly by others amplifies their self-critical inner voice, reinforcing the belief that perfection is the only acceptable outcome. Clients in anxiety counseling recognize where these unrealistic standards come from and learn ways to be more self-compassionate. 

4. Anxious Anticipation of Consequences

Anxiety can create a heightened anticipation of potential negative consequences. Perfectionists frequently engage in overthinking and excessive planning to prevent mistakes or prepare for every possible outcome. They become preoccupied with the future, constantly worrying about the repercussions of any perceived imperfections. Anxiety therapy can help you cope differently with anxiety and fear of consequences. 

While anxiety can be a significant driver of perfectionism, it is important to know that there may have unique combinations of underlying factors contributing to your perfectionistic tendencies. Understanding the role of anxiety in perfectionism can help you in finding different ways of coping and challenging your perfectionism.

Anxiety therapy in Utah can help with perfectionism 

Anxiety therapy in Utah can be really helpful for women dealing with perfectionism. Working with an anxiety therapist can provide support and guidance to you if you are struggling with the pressure to be perfect. I am here to create a safe and understanding space where you can talk about your fears and worries. During anxiety counseling sessions, you can learn about why you feel the need to be perfect and how to handle those feelings in a healthier way.  As an anxiety counselor, I am here to help challenge their negative thoughts and develop self-compassion. With anxiety therapy in Utah, you can gain the tools and coping skills to manage your perfectionistic tendencies and lead a more balanced and satisfying life.

Start working with an anxiety therapist in Utah 

Don't let the pressure to be perfect hold you back from living a fulfilling life. Anxiety therapy can help. This Utah Counseling Clinic has a therapist for anxiety who can help you manage your anxiety symptoms. To begin anxiety treatment follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with an anxiety counselor

3. Find freedom from perfectionism

Is Perfectionism Linked to Anxiety?

Perfectionism and anxiety often go hand in hand. Perfectionism is often defined as setting excessively high standards for yourself and experiencing intense pressure to meet those standards. This relentless pursuit of perfection can lead to heightened levels of anxiety. Anxiety Therapy can help release you from perfectionism. 

What is perfectionism?

When someone is a perfectionist, they may constantly worry about making mistakes, fear criticism or judgment from others, and have a strong desire for control. As an anxiety therapist, I see how these thoughts and behaviors can create a constant state of anxiety and unease. The fear of falling short of their own expectations can be overwhelming, causing individuals to feel anxious, stressed, and even paralyzed by the fear of failure.

Perfectionism can also lead to a cycle of self-criticism and self-doubt. When someone holds themselves to impossibly high standards, they may constantly find faults in their own work or abilities.  Being harsh and self-critical can create a significant amount of anxiety, as perfectionists feel like they never measure up to their own impossible standards. This negatively impacts their mental health.

It's important to note that perfectionism can manifest differently in different people. Some may strive for perfection in their work or school,  while others may focus on their appearance, relationships, or other areas of life. Regardless of the specific focus, the underlying anxiety and perfection pressure remains consistent.

Perfection as a way of coping with anxiety

Perfectionism can sometimes be used as a way of coping with underlying anxiety. Although it may seem counterintuitive, some believe that by striving for perfection, they can gain a sense of control over their anxiety and reduce the chances of experiencing anything negative. Here are a few ways in which people may use perfectionism as a coping strategy:

• Control

  Perfectionists often believe that by maintaining complete control over every aspect of their lives, they can minimize uncertainty and potential sources of anxiety. They may try to control their environment, relationships, or even their own thoughts and emotions in an attempt to create a sense of security.

• Avoidance of Failure or Criticism

  Perfectionists might believe that if they achieve flawless results or receive constant praise, they will avoid negative judgments, criticism, or rejection. They may view mistakes or imperfections as personal failures, which intensifies their anxiety. By striving for perfection, they hope to shield themselves from these perceived negative outcomes.

• Seeking Validation

  Perfectionists often rely heavily on external validation and approval from others to feel a sense of self-worth. They may believe that if they can meet impossibly high standards, they will gain recognition, acceptance, and admiration from others, which can temporarily alleviate their anxiety.

• Reduction of Uncertainty

  Perfectionists may engage in excessive planning, over-preparation, or repeated checking to minimize the uncertainty that fuels their anxiety. They may feel compelled to double-check their work, seek reassurance, or excessively research to ensure that everything is flawless, leaving no room for error or unexpected outcomes.

It's important to note that while perfectionism may provide temporary relief from anxiety, it is ultimately an unattainable and self-defeating goal. The constant pressure to be perfect can perpetuate a cycle of anxiety, self-criticism, and disappointment. Over time, the negative consequences of perfectionism often outweigh any temporary relief it may provide.

Anxiety Therapy for perfectionism

Understanding the connection between perfectionism and anxiety is crucial to being able to change it. Anxiety Therapy can be helpful in untangling the relationship between perfectionism and anxiety and finding healthier ways to cope. Working with an anxiety therapist allows you to challenge their perfectionistic beliefs, develop self-compassion, and learn different ways to manage anxiety. You don’t have to try and figure this all out on your own. Seeking anxiety treatment doesn’t mean you can’t handle your life but is actually a sign of strength that you want to learn to cope with anxiety differently.

How to start working with an anxiety therapist in Utah

Let go of the constant pressure and anxiety that comes with striving for unattainable perfection. Working with an anxiety therapist can help. This Utah Counseling Clinic has a therapist who specializes in helping clients learn to cope with their anxiety symptoms and perfectionism. To start anxiety treatment follow the steps below:

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation

2. Meet with a therapist for anxiety

3. Manage your anxiety better

3 Parks in St. George, Utah to Calm Anxiety

Coping with anxiety plays an important role in anxiety therapy, as it focuses on gaining effective tools to manage and alleviate anxiety symptoms. A part of being successful in anxiety treatment is to practice some of the skills you learn. As an anxiety therapist, I understand how hard it is to feel motivated to use your coping skills when feeling anxious but I also know that if you want to be able to feel better it takes practice. While the cause of anxiety is something that will continually be explored in anxiety therapy, make sure you take the opportunity to use grounding skills to lessen the anxiety’s intensity. I want to offer 3 parks to practice coping skills in. 

1.  Vernon Worthen Park

Vernon Worthen Park is a charming public park located in the heart of St. George, Utah. Situated near the downtown area, this park holds historical significance and offers a peaceful retreat for both residents and visitors to enjoy.  Walking in a peaceful outdoor environment provides bilateral stimulation which can help calm anxiety. Focus on your footsteps, the rhythm of your breath, and the sights and sounds of the park as you move. This can provide a sense of relaxation and improve your overall well-being. As an anxiety therapist, I know how powerful it can be to calm your nervous system to use deep breathing. 

2. Tonaquint Park

I’m biased because I got married in Tonaquint Park in St. George, Utah but I think this is the best park in all of Washington County. I love the big, green, shade trees and all the grassy areas for you to relax and calm your anxiety. Tonaquint Park is located off of Dixie Drive and provides an ideal setting for calming anxiety and finding peace in nature. Take a leisurely stroll along the park's trails, immersing yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Focus on the sights, sounds, and sensations of nature. Take deep breaths and let the fresh air and gentle breeze soothe your senses. Practice mindfulness as a way to cope with your anxiety symptoms. Find a quiet spot in the park, whether it's under a tree or by a peaceful pond, and practice meditation or mindfulness. Close your eyes, focus on your breath, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. Pay attention to the sounds of birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the sensation of the earth beneath your feet.

3. Pioneer Park 

Pioneer Park, also known as Dixie Rock, is a prominent and beloved public park located in St. George, Utah. Situated on a scenic hillside, this park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance. Nestled amidst the stunning red rock landscape that characterizes southern Utah, Pioneer Park provides visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. The park's rugged terrain, towering cliffs, and fascinating rock formations create a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration. When you’re dealing with anxiety Pioneer Park offers a variety of spaces—some more secluded and quiet, while others are open and conducive to social interactions. Based on your personal preferences, find a space that aligns with your needs at the moment. If being alone helps you relax, seek a peaceful spot to reflect and find solace. On the other hand, if being around others brings comfort, consider joining a group or engaging in conversations with fellow park-goers.

Anxiety Therapy in Utah can help you cope 

Anxiety therapy in Utah offers support to women struggling with anxiety. As an anxiety, therapist, I can provide a safe and nurturing environment to address the underlying issues leading to your anxiety. Anxiety treatment can help you understand your symptoms, identify triggers, and develop better coping skills for dealing with anxiety. I’m here to help you through the process. 

How to start working with an anxiety therapist in Utah

Don't let anxiety hold you back from living a fulfilling life. Start your journey towards healing and take control of your mental health. This Utah Counseling Clinic has a therapist for anxiety trained to help you deal with your anxiety. To begin anxiety treatment follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a therapist for anxiety

3. Start managing anxiety symptoms better

Questions Family & Friends Ask About Eating Disorders

When you’re outside of an eating disorder, it can be challenging to understand the complexity of these mental illnesses. On the surface, it seems like this is all about food, weight, or the desire for thinness, and yet in so many ways that’s not what it’s about at all. Of course, those are the symptoms and the ways eating disorders manifest themselves. Regardless of the type of eating disorder, they are deep-rooted in a variety of things, and in order to heal from them they need to be addressed layer by layer. A significant part of being able to recover from an eating disorder is having support from loved ones. This is why it’s important for family members and friends to have more of an understanding of eating disorders, what they’re about, and how they can help. 

So what are eating disorders really about then?

If eating disorders aren’t just about food, weight, and eating then what are they really about? Keep in mind that the answer to this will vary from person to person but here are some common roots of eating disorders: 

Traits of Perfectionism 

Perfectionistic tendencies are common among people with eating disorders. They may strive for unattainable standards of not only thinness, rules around eating, exercise, and appearance but in sports, work, school, extracurricular activities, and relationships. Struggling with perfectionism fuels disordered eating behaviors and makes it challenging to accept themselves. People with eating disorders may have an intense fear of failure in various aspects of their lives. This fear can be a driving force behind their perfectionistic tendencies, as they believe that achieving perfection will protect them from criticism, rejection, or feelings of inadequacy.

Traumatic Experiences 

Trauma can impact a person's ability to regulate their emotions effectively. Eating disorders may serve as a way of coping despite it being unhealthy, it allowing them to numb or control overwhelming emotions associated with the trauma. Disordered eating behaviors can provide a false sense of comfort and distraction from painful memories or feelings. Traumatic experiences can also impact a person's body image especially experiences that are sexual abuse. People with eating disorders may internalize feelings of shame, guilt, or self-blame, leading to negative body image and a desire to alter their appearance through disordered eating behaviors. 

Low self-esteem

 Eating disorders can become intertwined with a person's sense of self-worth and identity. They may believe that their worth is determined by their weight or adhering to standards of beauty. Achieving a certain weight or body shape becomes a measure of personal value and acceptance and when they can't achieve this it negatively impacts their self-esteem. 

Body image issues

Body image issues are closely linked to the development of eating disorders.  Negative body image involves a distorted perception of one's body, where people perceive themselves as flawed, unattractive, or disproportionate. This negative perception can drive the desire for drastic changes in body shape or weight, leading to disordered eating behaviors. Body image can become closely tied to an individual's self-worth and identity. If someone's self-esteem is primarily contingent upon their appearance, negative body image can erode their sense of self-worth. The belief that achieving a certain body shape or weight will enhance their value or acceptability can drive the development of disordered eating behaviors.

Emotional coping

Eating disorders can develop as a way to cope with and manage difficult emotions. People with eating disorders may use disordered eating behaviors as a way to regulate and manage their emotions. Food and body-related behaviors provide a temporary escape or distraction from distressing emotions such as sadness, anxiety, anger, or loneliness. Restrictive eating, bingeing, or purging can serve as an unhealthy coping skill to numb or suppress emotional pain. People may use disordered eating as a means to avoid or suppress emotions altogether. They may find it challenging to tolerate or express their emotions directly and instead turn to food or body-related behaviors to create a sense of dissociation or numbness.

Anxiety 

Anxiety is incredibly common among those who have eating disorders. I have not met or had a client yet that didn’t have anxiety that also had an eating disorder. Anxiety often coexists with eating disorders as individuals may use disordered eating behaviors as a way to cope with anxiety. The rituals, rules, and control of disordered eating behaviors can temporarily alleviate anxiety symptoms or provide a sense of relief and structure. Pre-existing anxiety or a tendency toward anxious thinking and behaviors can increase the vulnerability to developing an eating disorder.

Need for Control

The need for control often comes from a fear of the unknown, uncertainty, and anxiety.  Engaging in disordered eating behaviors can provide a structured routine and rules that help individuals with eating disorders feel more certain and in control. When faced with unpredictable or anxiety-provoking situations, strict control over food and eating patterns can serve as a way to cope and reduce anxiety. Engaging in disordered eating behaviors can provide a structured routine and rules that help individuals with eating disorders feel more certain and in control. When faced with unpredictable or anxiety-provoking situations, strict control over food and eating patterns can serve as a way to cope and reduce anxiety.

Other Mental Health Issues

Eating disorders often coexist with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or PTSD. These mental health issues contribute to developing and maintaining an eating disorder. 

Societal influences

Societal ideals of beauty, often portrayed through media, advertising, and social media, tend to promote thinness as the ideal body shape. The constant exposure to these unrealistic beauty standards can contribute to body dissatisfaction and drive the desire to achieve a certain body size or shape. The relentless pursuit of this ideal can lead to the development of disordered eating behaviors. Society's negative attitudes and the stigma towards larger body sizes can significantly impact body image and self-esteem. Fatphobia can lead to internalized weight bias and contribute to developing an eating disorder. The desire to avoid or escape weight stigma may drive extreme measures to control weight and conform to societal expectations.

Questions you might be asking about your loved one’s eating disorder

These are some of the common questions that family members and friends ask about eating disorders. I want to provide some answers to them to help expand your understanding of your loved one who is experiencing an eating disorder

Why can’t they just focus on being healthy?

I understand your concern and desire for your loved one to be healthy. However, it's important to recognize that eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that go beyond simply making a choice to be healthy. There are a few reasons why it's not as simple as just being healthy. Ironically the focus on health, is what has possibly led to the development of an eating disorder, and focusing on “health” can also exacerbate the eating disorder. When a person with perfectionistic tendencies tries to focus on health it can go extreme, which leads to eating disorders specifically orthorexia. A hyper-focus on health can lead to increased anxiety and stress related to food choices, exercise routines, and body image. The pressure to constantly make "right" and "healthy" choices can create a significant emotional burden and increase the risk of developing disordered eating behaviors as a way to cope with anxiety or regain a sense of control. An intuitive eating approach is an alternative approach to eating disorder recovery that can help your loved one become in tune with their body's hunger and fullness cues. 

Why can’t they just eat normally?

People with eating disorders often experience intense fear and anxiety surrounding food, weight gain, or loss of control. They experience intrusive thoughts about what they should and shouldn't eat that can be loud in their heads. These fears can make it challenging for them to engage in what may be considered "normal" eating. Overcoming these fears requires the help of a therapist and dietitian, learning to develop coping skills, overcoming negative beliefs, and working to eat foods and food groups they may be afraid of eating. All of this must be done with the support of family, friends, and treatment providers. 

Can’t they see how unhealthy their behaviors are?

Yes and no. Sometimes people with eating disorders do see how unhealthy their behaviors are and feel immense shame and guilt for engaging in them. Other times they believe their behaviors are necessary for them and may be in a state of denial on how they may negatively be impacting their mental and physical health. Eating disorders can impair the person's insight into their own behaviors and the consequences of their eating disorders. 

Why don’t they just stop or control their eating habits?

It’s difficult to stop disordered eating behaviors on your own. When they serve a purpose in the individual's life as a way to cope or make life more bearable, it can be hard to know where to turn instead. When it comes to controlling eating habits, eating disorders can be an extreme form of trying to control eating habits or ends up being the backlash of overcontrolling eating, which results in binging behaviors. People that have binge eating disorder have a history of restricting food intake, which biologically will lead to eventually binging. It’s not from lack of control but it’s the backlash of trying to control food intake too much. Trying to continue to restrict or focus on health is going to make binging worse. 

Did I do something to cause their eating disorder?

It is highly unlikely that you or one single factor caused your loved ones eating disorders. Eating disorders result from a mixture of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Family dynamics and environment can contribute to the development of an eating disorder indirectly, such as through the emphasis on appearance and body size, classifying foods as "good" or "bad", speaking negatively about your body or others' bodies, and other family factors. As an eating disorder therapist I recommend  Instead of focusing on assigning blame, it is more productive to provide support, empathy, and understanding to your loved one as well as educate yourself on eating disorders. 

How can I help them if they don’t want help?

If your loved one doesn’t want help, it’s not your job to try and force them to get help. What is helpful to focus on are the things that are in your control. The most important thing you can do is to educate yourself on eating disorders to have a better understanding of what your loved one is going through and why it’s a challenge for them. Continue to express empathy and concern but don’t enable their eating disorder behaviors. You want to create a safe space for them to be able to talk about their feelings and struggles. Continue to encourage your loved one to get professional help and consider getting support yourself. 

What triggers their disordered eating?

Triggers for disordered eating can vary from person to person, as each individual's experience with an eating disorder is unique. Contributing factors to developing an eating disorder include negative body image, emotional distress, high expectations, traumatic events, abuse and neglect, societal influences, and a perceived lack of control. As your loved one attends therapy and works with a dietitian you will be able to understand what specifically has impacted them individually. 

Can they overcome their eating disorder in the future?

Yes, your loved one can absolutely overcome their eating disorder. Recovery from an eating disorder is possible with the right support, treatment, and commitment to the healing process. It's important to approach recovery with a realistic understanding that it may take time and involve ups and downs along the way. Both you and them will need patience and persistence in focusing on eating disorder recovery. Being able to fully recover involves addressing the underlying issues of the eating disorder and finding new ways to cope outside of using eating disorder behaviors. 

Things not to say to someone with an eating disorder

I want to give some recommendations on what not to say to a loved one with an eating disorder. These are common things that have come up in therapy that have been known to be unhelpful. 

“Just Eat” 

It’s not that simple. When your loved one has intrusive thoughts telling them not to eat or other eating disorder behaviors, telling them to just eat won’t cure an eating disorder. 

“You look healthy” 

Telling your loved one they look healthy is maybe one of the biggest insults. In their minds, “healthy” means they are fat. While being fat isn’t a bad thing, it’s a negative thing in their mind that they need to work on challenging. 

“Why can’t you just eat more/less?”

Again, intrusive thoughts make it difficult to eat more or eat less. This is a simplistic answer but just know it’s not that simple. 

“You’re not fat” 

Saying this is placing an emphasis on body shape or size. Being fat is not a bad thing and stating this can imply that it might be a negative thing. Bodies come in all shapes and sizes and some people will naturally be in a larger body, and that’s ok. If you’re not ok with your loved one’s shape or size that’s something for you to work on. 

“You’re not trying hard enough” 

This is an invalidating and hurtful thing to say. You won’t have any idea the effort your loved one is putting into recovery. Eating disorder recovery is not a quick process and will take much longer than both you and you're loved one hope.

“You are just doing this for attention”

Having an eating disorder is a lot of effort to go to for attention. Regardless, this is a hurtful thing to say and won’t inspire your loved one to get better. It will stop them from counting you as a support and will stop opening up to you. 

How Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah can help 

Eating disorder therapy can be a life-changing decision when it comes to being able to overcome an eating disorder. Working with a therapist that you learn to trust, and that understands you and your eating disorder makes it easier to let your guard down and explore the underlying issues contributing to it.  Therapy can help to challenge and modify unhealthy thoughts, beliefs about yourself and your body. You can develop a better relationship with your body, food, and your self-esteem. 

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah today

You don’t have to keep feeling stuck in your eating disorder. You can have freedom from the anxiety about food and your body. Eating disorder therapy can help. This Utah Counseling Practice has an eating disorder therapist that specializes in helping women overcome their eating disorders. To begin therapy follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a therapist for eating disorders

3. Begin breaking free of your eating disorder

Online Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah 

You don’t have to worry about where you are located nor do you have to worry about traveling to a therapy session. I provide online therapy in Utah. Online eating disorder therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy but without the hassle of leaving your home or office. 

Online eating disorder therapy means I work with clients all over the state of Utah. I work with clients in Logan, Salt Lake City, Provo, Heber City, 

Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy 

Eating disorder therapy isn’t the only counseling service provided by this Utah Counseling Center. Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy include EMDR therapy, binge eating disorder treatment, birth trauma therapy, anxiety therapy, body image therapy, and counseling for college students. 

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is a dedicated and compassionate eating disorder therapist with extensive experience in helping individuals overcome their struggles with disordered eating. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Family Life and Human Development from Southern Utah University, where she gained a strong foundation in understanding the complexities of family dynamics and human behavior. Motivated by her passion for helping others, Ashlee furthered her education and obtained a Master's degree from Utah State University, specializing in clinical social work. Throughout her career, Ashlee has focused her expertise on working with individuals facing eating disorders. With her deep understanding of the emotional, psychological, and societal factors that contribute to disordered eating, she provides a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their experiences and work toward recovery. As an eating disorder therapist, Ashlee is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in the field, continuously expanding her knowledge and refining her therapeutic approaches.

Other Blog Posts Written by an Eating Disorder Therapist 

• Benefits of Eating Disorder Therapy in the Summer

• 3 Ways Eating Disorder Therapy Will Change Your Life

• 3 Topics to Address in Eating Disorder Therapy 

• What I Love About Being An Eating Disorder Therapist 

• A Common Fear In Eating Disorder Therapy 

• 4 Reasons to Ditch the Scale: Advice from an Eating Disorder Therapist in Utah 

Benefits of Eating Disorder Therapy in the Summer

The summer months are some of the most difficult times for the women I work with. When you have disordered eating and body image issues, the summer can be extra hard emotionally. Summer is the time when you might spend more time in a swimming suit or compare yourself to other bodies you see in a swimming suit. Summertime means shedding the extra clothing layers that make you feel comfortable or can help you hide your body. Dieting can be more prominent in the summer months, and it’s a challenge to maintain your eating disorder recovery in this setting. The variety of foods at barbecues and social gatherings can bring on more anxiety for people struggling with their relationships with food. It doesn’t matter what type of eating disorder you have, the summer is still difficult. After a long winter, people also tend to be more social and when you struggle with anxiety in these situations it can feel overwhelming. 

Reasons to Go to eating disorder therapy in the Summer

Starting your eating disorder recovery journey is important at any time but there are some particular benefits of beginning in the summer. Here are just a few reasons why you should begin eating disorder therapy this summer. 

1. Seasonal Triggers

The seasonal triggers that arise in the summer can feel overwhelming. The weather is warmer and people start wearing shorts, tank tops, and swimming suits. This gives opportunities for you to see more people showing their bodies on social media causing more comparison and negative body image. Spending time with other people in social settings that involve eating around other people can bring on more anxiety. The media also begins to portray more unrealistic standards of beauty this time of year, and it can be tough to try and navigate all of it. Attending eating disorder therapy in the summer can help you work through these triggers and to be able to feel less anxiety and stress in these situations. 

2. Need for more support

When there are more stressors and more triggers during the summer when you have an eating disorder, having extra support can be helpful. It can be hard to start or maintain recovery when you are feeling more anxious about your body and your eating without the right level of support. Attending weekly eating disorder therapy can help you learn to cope with your emotions and triggers. You don’t have to try and figure this out on your own. An eating disorder therapist has been trained and knows how to help you manage your eating disorder recovery. 

3. Time for Personal Growth 

As an eating disorder therapist, the most common time people come into therapy is during the fall time. It seems to be that the triggers and lifestyle of the summer impacts their mental health and they’re in a rough place mentally and emotionally. One thing I recommend is to go through therapy earlier and before things really start to take a toll. I know summer can be busy with vacations and activities but I would urge you to prioritize your mental health. Summertime can be a time of personal growth where you are able to gain more self-awareness in therapy as well as more self-compassion. 

Eating disorder therapy in Utah can help maintain recovery this summer

Eating disorder therapy can help you start or maintain your eating disorder recovery this summer. Summer may be a hard time for you with your eating disorder or negative body image but working with an eating disorder therapist can help you work through it. You can have the support you need from a professional that knows how to help. Those social events, the afternoon at the pool, or your family reunion don’t have to be something you try to get through all on your own. Eating disorder therapy can give you the long-term support you are looking for. 

Work with an eating disorder therapist near Provo, Utah 

You don’t have to feel trapped in your cycle of eating and hating your body. You can find peace with food and not feel so much discomfort about existing in your body. Eating disorder therapy can help. This Utah Counseling Practice has an eating disorder therapist specializing in treating eating disorders. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with an eating disorder therapist 

3. Begin recovery from an eating disorder

Online Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah 

I know during the summer months it’s difficult to be able to balance a busy schedule and find a way to prioritize therapy. I offer online therapy in Utah to offer you convenience when it’s hard to travel or commute to a therapy appointment. Online eating disorder therapy is just as effective as an in-person therapy session but without the hassle of travel. 

Online counseling also means I work with clients all over the state of Utah. I work with clients in Logan, Cedar City, Heber City, Provo, Salt Lake City, St. George, and more. 

Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy

Eating disorder therapy isn’t the only counseling service offered at this Utah Counseling Center. Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy include EMDR therapy, binge eating disorder treatment, anxiety therapy, body image therapy, birth trauma therapy, and counseling for college students. 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt is a licensed clinical social worker and owner of Maple Canyon Therapy near Provo, Utah. Ashlee has a bachelor's degree in psychology and family life and human development from Southern Utah University. She earned her master's degree in social work from Utah State University. Ashlee has been treating eating disorders since 2013 and loves to help women learn to make peace with food and their bodies. She believes that eating disorder recovery is possible and loves to help women who are motivated to do so.

Other Blog Posts Written about Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah:

• 3 Ways Eating Disorder Therapy Will Change Your Life

• The Importance of Finding the Right Eating Disorder Therapist for You

• 4 Surprising Truths About Eating Disorder Therapy

• 4 Reasons to Ditch the Scale: Advice from an Eating Disorder Therapist in Utah 

• 5 Things I’ll Never Say Because I’m an Eating Disorder Therapist 

Identifying Triggers of Emotional Eating

Emotional eating is something that impacts so many people. You might feel you are all alone in this, and you are the only one that has these struggles but it’s simply not true. Often times when people struggle with emotional eating, they try to tighten up their food rules and maybe turn to dieting to help them feel in control again. Dieting and disordered eating rules tend to make not only emotional eating worse but it leads to binge eating too. The cycle of emotional eating continues. 

You don’t have to stay stuck in this cycle of emotional eating. I know you might feel hopeless right now but understanding what’s triggering emotional eating is important in being able to make changes and be more of an intuitive eater instead. My goal is to help you start to become a little bit more aware of what situations, people, places, or feelings might be related to your emotional eating. 

What is emotional eating?

Emotional eating is a behavior in which a person uses food as a way of coping with negative emotions or feelings, rather than eating to satisfy physical hunger. It involves using food to comfort or distract in response to feeling stressed, bored, lonely, anxious, overwhelmed, or other emotional triggers. Emotional eating may involve consuming specific types of food that are perceived as comforting or pleasurable.  Emotional eating can lead to low self-esteem, guilt, shame, and negative body image. 

Common emotional eating triggers

Emotional eating triggers will vary from person to person. Everyone’s experience is unique. These are some examples of triggers that some people experience that lead to emotional eating. 

• Stress: When faced with stressors such as work pressure, financial worries, or relationship issues,  you might turn to food as a way to cope.

• Boredom: When you are feeling unstimulated or unoccupied, you may turn to food as a source of entertainment or pleasure.

• Sadness: You may use food as a way of comforting yourself when feeling down or experiencing a sense of loss.

• Anxiety: When dealing with anxiousness or feeling overwhelmed, you may turn to food as a way to distract yourself or numb your feelings.

• Loneliness:  When you feel lonely or disconnected, you may turn to food as a way to fill an emotional void or seek comfort.

• Fatigue: When you are tired or run down, you may turn to food as a way of boosting your energy levels.

• Celebrations: You may turn to food as a way of celebrating special occasions or milestones, even if you are not physically hungry.

• Trauma: Trauma can trigger emotional eating by creating a sense of emotional distress or discomfort that you seek to alleviate through food. 

• Painful experiences: can lead to emotional eating by triggering negative emotions, such as stress, sadness, or anxiety, which you might try to manage or numb through food. 

How do deal with emotional eating triggers?

It’s important to find your own way of dealing with emotional eating triggers that work for you. Here are some examples of ways of dealing with emotional eating. Dealing with emotional eating triggers involves identifying the triggers and developing healthy coping strategies to manage them. Here are some tips for dealing with emotional eating triggers:

• Identify your own triggers:

  Take note of the situations or emotions that tend to trigger emotional eating for you. Withhold judgment toward yourself as you go through this process. Just try to notice common themes that lead to emotional eating. 

• Use other coping skills: 

  Find other ways of coping with difficult emotions. Examples include deep breathing, meditation, exercise, journaling, or talking to a friend or therapist.

• Use your support: 

  Surround yourself with supportive people who understand your goals and can help you stay on track.

• Practice self-compassion:

  Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Remember that emotional eating is a common struggle, and it doesn't mean there's anything wrong with you as a person. 

• Therapy for emotional eating:

  If emotional eating is a persistent concern, consider seeking professional help from a therapist specializing in emotional eating.

How Therapy for Emotional Eating in Utah Can Help

It can be scary to think about using a professional for help with your emotional eating. Some people are afraid that they’ll be encouraged to diet or restrict themselves more. Other people hope that going to a therapist will help them lose weight. However, therapy for emotional eating is neither of those things. You can expect that therapy will focus on helping address the way you feel about yourself, the negative beliefs you struggle with, and finding other ways to cope with your emotions that don’t involve always turning to food. Therapy will also normalize that we all emotionally eat and it doesn’t mean that you will always require some sort of intervention. It’s normal to emotionally eat from time to time but if you feel like it’s your primary way of coping and it’s leading to negative feelings about yourself, therapy can be a good option for you. Therapy can help address the underlying issues that might be contributing to you engaging in emotional eating. 

Begin Therapy for Emotional Eating in Utah

You don’t have to keep feeling stuck in this cycle of emotional eating. You can find other ways to cope with how you feel and therapy for emotional eating can help. This Utah Counseling Practice has a disordered eating therapist specializing in treating emotional eating. To begin therapy follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a caring therapist

3. Start healing from emotional eating

Online Therapy in Utah

It can be difficult to have access to a therapist who specializes in emotional eating that doesn’t encourage dieting or restriction as a form of intervention. This is why I offer online therapy in Utah. If you don’t have a therapist specializing in what you need in your town, you can still have access to online counseling. Online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy but much more convenient. 

Online Therapy also means I work with clients all over the state of Utah including St. George, Cedar City, Provo, Logan, Salt Lake City, Heber City, and more. 

Other mental health Services Provided by Maple Canyon Therapy 

Therapy for emotional eating isn’t the only counseling service provided at this Utah Counseling Center. Other mental health services provided by Maple Canyon Therapy include eating disorder therapy, binge eating disorder treatment, EMDR therapy, anxiety therapy, counseling for college students, birth trauma therapy, and body image therapy. 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt LCSW is a licensed therapist and founder of Maple Canyon Therapy near Provo, Utah. Ashlee has a bachelor's degree in family life and human development and a bachelor's degree in psychology both from Southern Utah University. She received her master's degree in social work from Utah State University. Ashlee has been working with women to help improve their relationship with food and their bodies since 2013. She works with women who have eating disorders, disordered eating, and emotional eating.