Eating Disorders and Low Self-Esteem
Alright, let’s talk about self-esteem.
Have you ever felt like you're just one awkward social interaction away from a full-blown identity crisis? Like, one unanswered text, one awkward pause in a conversation, or one unliked Instagram post, and suddenly you're spiraling into, "Does anyone even like me?”
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If this post resonates with you or makes you feel something, share it with a friend! My hope is that we can keep this important conversation going long after the post is over.
Well, welcome to the club—it's a big one.
In this episode, I’m talking about self-esteem: what it really is, why so many of us struggle with it, and how it connects to our relationship with food and body image. Because let’s be honest, it's not about staring at yourself in the mirror and repeating affirmations until you magically feel worthy. (Though, hey, if that works for you, go for it.) Instead, we're getting into the real stuff—why our sense of self is so tied to relationships, the risks we take (or don’t take) in them, and how that all plays into things like eating disorders and body image struggles.
So if you’ve ever felt like you need to shrink yourself—literally or metaphorically—to be accepted, this one’s for you. Let’s talk about what it really takes to build self-esteem that lasts.
In this episode, I’m talking about:
How self-esteem is built through trusting that you’ll be okay despite rejection, failure, or setbacks.
The role of resilience in developing a strong sense of self.
Why feeling accepted, seen, and validated by others is crucial for a healthy self-image.
What happens when we don’t receive consistent validation.
How social media can reinforce self-esteem struggles.
The process of building self-esteem through interpersonal risks with trustworthy people.
The connection between eating disorders and self-esteem struggles.
How eating disorders can be a physical manifestation of deeper struggles with self-worth and taking up space.
What recovery looks like when it involves embracing your inherent worth and allowing yourself to take up space.
The small, manageable risks you can take in relationships, work, and daily interactions to strengthen self-esteem.
Why trusting in consistent, supportive relationships is key to developing a lasting sense of self-worth.
How true self-esteem is built over time through real, meaningful connections—not quick fixes or isolated behavior changes.
Tweetable Quotes
"We all, every single person, need to be seen, heard, accepted, and supported." - Rachelle Heinemann
"In order to heal from an eating disorder and in order to develop some version of a healthy self-esteem, it's all the same idea—the acceptance that I am who I am." - Rachelle Heinemann
"I take up space. I do have lots of flaws. Not everyone's going to like me, but I have to take up space." - Rachelle Heinemann
"Self-esteem is about knowing the people who matter to you already, accept you and you know you're good enough the way you are without changing." - Rachelle Heinemann
Resources
Bergen Mental Health Group Inc. is hiring! If you think you’d be a great fit, email your resume and cover letter to rachelle@rachelleheinemann.com
Looking for a speaker for an upcoming event? Let’s chat!
Now accepting new clients! Find out if we're a good fit!
Related Episodes
Episode 155. Cracking the Confidence Code: Part 2
Episode 154. The Secret Sauce for Building Confidence: Part 1
Episode 151. Body Image is the Last to Go
Episode 146. Caring Less About What Others Think
Episode 103. What To Do When You Feel Stuck with Sondra Kronberg
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More From Rachelle
Hey there! I’m Rachelle, the host of the Understanding Disordered Eating Podcast. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I work with clients to make sense of life’s messy emotional experiences.
I believe in the power of deep work and its positive impact on your life in the long term. Learn more about how we can work together here.
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