Apr 3, 2025
In this thought-provoking Clinician’s Corner episode,
Clarissa Kennedy and Molly Painschab dive deep into the
ever-popular term “self-sabotage” — and why they believe it’s not
only inaccurate but potentially harmful in the context of food
addiction recovery.
Together, they explore how behaviors often labeled as
self-sabotage are actually maladaptive coping strategies, formed
through years of survival. These are not signs of brokenness, but
evidence of brilliance in navigating pain, trauma, and unmet needs.
The duo discusses how using shame-based language like “chronic
relapser” or “self-sabotage” can derail healing, and instead, offer
curiosity, compassion, and nervous system awareness as more
empowering alternatives.
This episode is packed with insight, real client
stories, and powerful reframes that will resonate with anyone
navigating food addiction, emotional eating, or recovery
setbacks.
Key Takeaways:
• 🔁 “Self-sabotage” often reflects nervous system
dysregulation, not moral failure — these behaviors were once
adaptive strategies that worked to protect you.
• 🧠 Your brain prioritizes the familiar over the
functional — even if the familiar thing hurts, it still feels safer
than the unknown.
• ⛔ Terms like “chronic relapser” can shut down
curiosity and growth — replacing them with language like “chronic
ambivalence” invites exploration and self-kindness.
• 🌪️ Recovery often feels like pressing the gas and
the brake at the same time — you want to grow, but fear, beliefs,
or unprocessed grief can hold you back.
• 🛠️ Even "maladaptive" behaviors are skills — they
were practiced over time. With intention and compassion, new habits
can be learned the same way.
• 🔍 Behaviors like bingeing after a win, or striving
for perfection, are clues — not failures. Ask, “What is this trying
to tell me?”
• 👥 Connection is key — community and co-regulation
help us see progress we can’t always witness in
ourselves.
Clinician Gems:
• “There’s no such thing as self-sabotage — only unmet
needs and unprocessed fear.”
• “Recovery takes courage, not
perfection.”
• “We don’t erase progress with a slip. Practice
doesn’t disappear.”
• “The goal isn’t a perfect streak — it’s the pattern
of returning.”
We Want to Hear From You!
What landed for you in this episode? Do you resonate
with the term self-sabotage — or are you ready to retire it too?
Send your feedback, topic suggestions, or stories to: foodjunkiespodcast@gmail.com
Transform Within Workshop: https://sweetsobriety.newzenler.com/courses/transform-within
The content of our show is educational only. It
does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's
professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of
your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any
questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use
disorder, or mental health concern.