Eating disorders and the power of self-compassion
Growing evidence links self-compassion with good mental and physical health.
So what exactly does it mean to have compassion for oneself? It means being mindful, recognizing our common humanity in times of hardship, and practising self-kindness in times of suffering.
Researchers at St. Paul’s Hospital are currently exploring the role of self-compassion in eating disorders treatment and recovery. One year into a five-year study, their early findings suggest that self-compassion plays a significant and beneficial role when it comes to patient outcomes.
“What’s really striking is that individuals who have eating disorders have barriers to practising self-compassion,” noted Dr. Josie Geller, Registered Psychologist and Director of Research with the Eating Disorders Program at St. Paul’s.
