Values clarification — identifying what matters most to you at the deepest level — is a cornerstone of ACT therapy for anorexia nervosa and provides direction when anorexia nervosa removes other navigational tools.
Why Values Matter for Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa often disconnects us from our values through avoidance, withdrawal, and reduced capacity. Reconnecting with values provides:
- Direction when anorexia nervosa has eliminated other motivation
- Meaning that persists even through difficult anorexia nervosa periods
- A basis for action independent of how anorexia nervosa makes you feel
Clarifying Your Values with Anorexia Nervosa
Ask yourself: 'If my anorexia nervosa were less present, what would I be doing more of? What kind of person would I be?'
Values are not goals (achievable and done) but ongoing directions: being a present parent, creating beauty, contributing to others.
Values-Based Action in Anorexia Nervosa
ACT therapy teaches: act according to values even when anorexia nervosa is present. Small values-aligned actions, despite anorexia nervosa, are more sustainable than waiting for anorexia nervosa to lift first.