One of the most counterintuitive truths about bulimia nervosa: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Bulimia Nervosa Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of bulimia nervosa
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking bulimia nervosa is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging bulimia nervosa without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing bulimia nervosa to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for bulimia nervosa while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Bulimia Nervosa
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting bulimia nervosa, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Bulimia Nervosa
Many people find that when they stop fighting bulimia nervosa and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of bulimia nervosa is partly the struggle against it.