Posted by Dr. Beth Steinhauer on December 28, 2004, at 10:17:27
In reply to Re: Steinhauer: Guest expert on eating disorders, posted by foxy420 on December 26, 2004, at 23:18:51
While I am happy that you are no longer suffering from Anorexia Nervosa, I wouldn't endorse marijuana use as a method of treatment. While it is true that marijuana may increase appetite, most anorexics will tell you that their appetite is initially normal (though it may be suppressed with continued starvation); it is their RESPONSE to their appetite that is abnormal, i.e. the drive to OVERRIDE hunger pangs.
It may also be true that marijuana temporarily alleviates anxiety, but with continued use, cannabis is more likely to CAUSE or AGGRAVATE depression. Dependence on cannabis limits your ability to respond to stress in other, healthier ways and may interfere with your productivity, motivation, and social relationships. I am particularly concerned about your reliance on marijuana when you are parenting a child. Parenting is an extraordinarily complex and difficult job that requires you exercise clear thinking, responsiveness to your child's needs, and above all, good judgment.
There are many other healthier means to obtain help for Eating Disorders and body image concerns. For your own sake, and for the sake of your child, please consider getting some in-person help from a mental health practitioner. ES
poster:Dr. Beth Steinhauer
thread:432437
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/eating/20041128/msgs/434976.html