Perfectionism and Eating Disorders
Perfectionism can affect how we think and feel about ourselves, and is commonly associated with all forms of disordered eating. At The London Centre, we offer evidence-based therapy to help you find balance, confidence, and self-compassion.
Perfectionism EXPLAINED
Understanding Perfectionism and Its Connection to Eating Disorders
Perfectionism exists on a spectrum. Many people describe themselves as perfectionists because they care deeply about doing things well. Healthy striving can be positive, motivating, and part of someone’s identity.
Clinical perfectionism, however, is different. It occurs when the standards you set for yourself become so high, rigid, or fear-driven that they begin to interfere with your emotional well-being, relationships, or physical health. Clinical perfectionism is not simply about wanting to do well — it is often rooted in a fear of failure or a fear of being seen as “not good enough,” no matter how much you achieve.
The link between perfectionism and eating disorders is complex. For some people, eating disorder symptoms become a way of avoiding or escaping the pressure of unrealistic standards in other parts of life. For others, perfectionism becomes fused with food, weight, or appearance, for example, striving to eat “perfectly,” maintain a “perfect” weight, or follow rigid rules around exercise or body shape. In both cases, the fear of falling short drives cycles of self-criticism, overcontrol, and avoidance that become difficult to interrupt.
With specialist support, it is possible to soften these patterns, understand what drives them, and build healthier, more compassionate ways of coping.
OCD EXPLAINED
How Clinical Perfectionism Affects Body Image and Mental Health
Clinical perfectionism often plays a significant role in how individuals evaluate their worth. Many people feel that nothing they do is ever quite enough, or that their value depends on constant achievement, productivity, or appearance. When these standards become tied to weight or body shape, even small deviations can trigger shame, anxiety, or a sense of failure.
These patterns frequently co-occur with anxiety, depression, and obsessive thinking, difficulties commonly experienced alongside eating disorders. Over time, the pressure to meet impossible standards can leave individuals feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and stuck.
Therapy can help broaden perspective, reduce self-criticism, and support a more flexible and compassionate relationship with emotions, food, and the body.
Common signs of Clinical Perfectionism in Eating Disorders
Common signs include:
How The London Centre Treats Perfectionism in Eating Disorders
Our clinicians at The London Centre are experienced in understanding how clinical perfectionism develops and how it interacts with eating disorders, body image concerns, emotional regulation, and daily functioning.
Treatment focuses on:
All treatment is confidential, warm, and tailored to your individual needs. When helpful, we also support family members or partners to better understand these patterns and play an informed role in recovery
Therapeutic Approaches for Perfectionism and Eating Disorders
Perfectionism is not treated separately from eating disorders. Instead, it is addressed within a broader therapeutic approach that supports the whole person — their thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and underlying beliefs.
Our clinicians draw upon:
These therapies help clients build insight, emotional flexibility, and self-compassion, supporting long-term recovery and improved well-being.
The Benefits of Treating Perfectionism and Eating Disorders Together
When to Seek Professional Help
It may be helpful to seek support if perfectionism is causing distress, taking up significant mental energy, or impacting your eating habits, relationships, or sense of self-worth. Left unaddressed, these patterns can intensify eating disorder symptoms and make recovery feel more challenging.
Therapy at The London Centre offers a safe and supportive space to help you understand these patterns and develop healthier, more sustainable strategies. Reaching out early can make a profound difference.
Start your journey
Take the First Step
Towards Recovery
Clinical perfectionism can be deeply challenging, but it is also highly treatable. With the right support, it’s possible to develop self-compassion, flexibility, and a more balanced relationship with food, appearance, and achievement. To learn more or arrange a confidential consultation, please contact our clinical team.
