What This Can Look Like
Eating concerns can show up in many ways, including, but not limited to restriction, bingeing, purging, compulsive exercise, or intense fear around weight and body image. Eating disorders often coexist with anxiety and mood symptoms, and the combination can make patterns feel harder to change alone.
How the Cycle Maintains Itself
When anxiety rises, maladaptive eating behaviors can become a way to cope, control, or reduce distress. Unfortunately, these behaviors can reinforce anxiety, shame, and rigid thinking, which keeps the cycle going.
How CBT and Exposure Therapy Help
At KY Cards, we use CBT and other evidence-based approaches to address:
- Unhelpful thinking patterns related to eating/body image
- Emotional awareness and regulation skills
- Behavior change through structured, step-by-step practice
- Exposure-based strategies when avoidance and fear are driving eating behaviors
What Treatment Looks Like at KY Cards
Care is individualized. Because eating disorders can involve medical risk, we evaluate whether outpatient treatment is appropriate. When needed, we coordinate with a multidisciplinary team, which may include a medical provider and a registered dietitian. If a higher level of care is recommended, we will help connect you with trusted resources.
Is This the Right Fit?
This page is specific to cases where anxiety is a central driver of eating behaviors. If you are unsure, we can help you determine the best next step.