When we face stress or danger, our body automatically activates the fight or flight response. This survival tactic releases hormones like adrenaline, increasing our heart rate and making us feel alert—ready to either face the threat or escape it. But in today’s world, stress can be triggered by more than just physical threats. Deadlines, social pressures, and even our own thoughts can set off this response, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
The red/green brain concept explains how we react to stress. The red brain triggers impulsive, emotional reactions, while the green brain is our logical side. When triggered, the red brain can take over, making us reactive when we don't want to be. Shallow chest breathing can often signal danger and tells our brain to go 'red'.
Here's the good news: tummy breathing can calm this response. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering your heart rate and relaxing your body. It's helpful to place your hands on your tummy to feel it rise. Next time you're stressed, take a few deep belly breaths and signal to your brain that you're safe.
Welcome to the Emotions in Recovery quiz! This quiz is designed to help you explore how you’re feeling as you navigate your recovery journey. Our emotions can sometimes be confusing or overwhelming, but understanding them is an important step toward healing. By answering these questions, you’ll gain insight into your current emotional state and discover ways to support yourself more compassionately. There are no right or wrong answers—just be honest with how you feel in this moment. Let's dive in!
You might be feeling more at ease with your recovery journey. There’s a sense of balance and satisfaction, like you’re beginning to appreciate progress, however small. This contentment comes from moments where you can pause and recognise your strength and resilience in healing. It’s a sign that you’re allowing yourself to celebrate positive steps, you should be proud!
You might be feeling like recovery is overwhelming at times, with so many emotions and challenges coming at once! It’s natural to feel this way during the process — it can be a lot to handle. Try focusing on only one step at a time, and to lean on others for support when it feels like too much. Remember, you’re not alone in this feeling, and asking for help is a sign of strength.
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You might be feeling more connected to the people in your life or your support system. Recovery can often feel isolating, but it's awesome you're starting to feel understood by others. Whether it's therapy, friends, family, or a support group, they can be a reminder that you don’t have to go through this journey alone. This connection brings comfort, showing that healing happens individually and in relationships too. Make sure you keep up the connecting!
You might feel distant from others or more isolated at the moment. It's completely normal to feel disconnected sometimes. Feeling along is a common feeling when recovery can be a highly private time for you. We know it might be hard but reaching out for support, even in small ways, can make a big difference. Finding ways to reconnect — whether it's talking to family, friends, therapy, or joining a support group could be helpful.
Otherwise Gumboot Friday has free counsellors for you to privately chat to:
You might be feeling more gentle toward yourself in this moment, allowing yourself to be kind to your body. In recovery, self-compassion is crucial — it means accepting your ups and downs without harsh judgment. By showing yourself the kindness you deserve, you’re creating a supportive space for healing and progress. Make sure to show yourself some love :)
You might be feeling ashamed about your struggles, believing that you should be stronger or different. This is a common feeling in recovery, but it’s important to remember that your eating disorder doesn’t define your worth. Shame can be a heavy burden, but recognising that you are worthy of care, understanding, and forgiveness — especially from yourself — is a key part of healing. Try looking at your thoughts and see if you'd say the same thing to a close friend.
Understand more about shame here:
