Understanding My Unusual Eating Habits
Hello everyone! I’m a 24-year-old woman dealing with bipolar disorder type 2, ADHD, depression, and endometriosis. My current medication routine includes: - Lithium carbonate at 450 mg per day - Lamictal at 50 mg - Zolpidem at 5 mg for urgent situations, primarily used to prevent mania when I can’t sleep On occasion, I indulge in one THC edible (around 10-15 mg) every week or every other week, and I also consume 1-2 CBD gummies (20-30 mg) weekly to aid with sleep. It’s quite difficult for me to share this information, and I feel an overwhelming sense of shame as if I’m being reprimanded. Despite the stigma, this is something I haven’t discussed with anyone in my life. A recent story I read about stomach blockages has made me particularly anxious. For the first time in my adult life, I truly desire to make positive changes. To get to the point, I find myself consuming all sorts of materials—not food. I've developed a habit of eating paper, rubber, plastic, styrofoam, and fabric. My nail-biting has escalated to the point where I cause bleeding almost daily, and a psychotherapist informed me that I might have an oral fixation. Trust me, I’ve attempted numerous times to simply quit eating these things, but I struggle immensely. One peculiar detail about my preferences is that I’m oddly drawn to the texture of the paper used for McDonald's straw wrappers. What implications might this have for my health? If I were to bring this up with my psychiatrist, could they provide any assistance? Is there a type of therapy that could be suitable to address these behaviors? I carry a lot of guilt about this issue and recognize that continuing these habits may lead to significant health problems down the line. What steps should I take moving forward? Should I see a psychologist, or would a gastroenterologist appointment be more appropriate? I appreciate any constructive feedback or guidance you can provide. I am genuinely eager to make a change in my life!
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 7:10:32 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s great to hear that you’re motivated to make positive changes in your life, and I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to express your concerns about your eating habits. Your situation involves complex factors, and the behaviors you described, such as consuming non-food items (a condition known as pica), can indeed have significant health implications.
Main Points:
- Health Risks: Eating non-food items can lead to nutritional deficiencies, digestive blockages, or other gastrointestinal issues.
- Seeking Help: It’s essential to discuss your habits with your psychiatrist, as they can offer tailored support and therapy options.
- Therapeutic Approaches: There are effective therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which may help address these behaviors.
Explanation:
Pica is often linked to various underlying issues, including nutrient deficiencies, psychological factors, or a combination of both. Given your history with bipolar disorder, ADHD, and anxiety, it’s understandable that you might struggle with compulsive behaviors. Continually eating non-food items can potentially lead to serious health problems, such as intestinal blockages, which are concerning.
Next Steps:
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Talk to Your Psychiatrist: Begin by scheduling an appointment to discuss your eating habits openly. This conversation is crucial, as your psychiatrist can evaluate your situation based on your mental health conditions and current medications.
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Explore Therapy Options: Ask about therapy types, specifically CBT or other modalities, that can help manage impulse control and address the underlying issues related to pica. Therapy can provide you with coping strategies and techniques to manage these behaviors effectively.
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Nutritional Assessment: Consider discussing with your psychiatrist the idea of involving a nutritionist or dietitian. They can help assess your diet and ensure you're meeting your nutritional needs, which may help reduce cravings for non-food items.
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Create a Support System: Sharing your experiences with someone you trust or a support group can be beneficial. You might find comfort and understanding in connecting with others who have similar experiences.
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Monitor Physical Symptoms: Be vigilant about any physical symptoms you might experience as a result of these habits, such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or nausea. If you notice any concerning symptoms, seeking advice from a gastroenterologist may become necessary.
Remember, change takes time, and seeking help is a significant first step. You deserve support in making these positive changes, and the journey you’re embarking on is commendable. If you need more information or specific resources, don’t hesitate to ask.
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