Studies show that belonging matters more than food!

Have you ever felt lonely or isolated?

Have you ever craved for social connection or acceptance?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. In fact, you are experiencing a fundamental human need: the need to belong. Many of us know the feeling of eating too much when we are lonely or stressed. This is a common habit for over one-third of American adults who regularly use food as a coping mechanism. [1] At the same time, another one-third of American adults suffer from chronic loneliness.[2]

These two alarming public health issues, which could be called epidemics, are closely linked. For millions of Americans, food is a way to fill the emotional emptiness and soothe the pain of loneliness.

Studies Show That Belonging Matters More Than Food!

What defines the need to belong?

The need to belong is defined as the desire to form and maintain close, lasting relationships with other individuals. It is one of the most basic and universal psychological needs, along with the needs for food, water, shelter and safety. According to some researchers, the need to belong is as strong as the need for food, and can even override other needs in certain situations [3].

Why is the need to belong so powerful?

Evolution

One reason is that it has evolutionary roots. Humans are social animals who have evolved to live in groups for survival and reproduction. Being part of a group provides protection from predators, access to resources, and opportunities for mating. Being rejected or excluded from a group, on the other hand, can have serious consequences for one’s well-being and survival [4].

Psychology

Another reason is that belongingness satisfies several psychological functions.

Belonging

        • gives us a sense of identity, meaning and purpose
        • helps us cope with stress, adversity and negative emotions
        • enhances our self-esteem, happiness and health
        • motivates us to behave in prosocial ways, such as cooperating, helping and sharing with others [5] 

How can we fulfill our need to belong?

There are many ways to do so, but here are some general tips:

        • Seek out and maintain meaningful relationships with people who share your values, interests and goals. These can be friends, family members, romantic partners, co-workers, classmates or anyone else who makes you feel valued and supported.
        • Join groups or communities that align with your passions, hobbies or causes. These can be clubs, teams, organizations or online platforms that allow you to interact with like-minded people and pursue common objectives.
        • Be open and authentic in your interactions with others. Express your thoughts and feelings honestly and respectfully. Listen actively and empathically to what others have to say. Show interest and curiosity in their lives and perspectives.
        • Be kind and generous to others. Offer help when needed. Give compliments and feedback. Share your resources and skills. Show gratitude and appreciation for what others do for you.
        • Avoid or limit contact with people who are toxic, abusive or unsupportive. These are people who make you feel bad about yourself, who criticize or judge you harshly, who manipulate or exploit you, or who violate your boundaries or rights.
        • Seek professional help if you struggle with loneliness or social anxiety. These are common and treatable conditions that can interfere with your ability to form and maintain healthy relationships. A therapist can help you identify and overcome the barriers that prevent you from fulfilling your need to belong.

The need to belong is a powerful force that shapes our thoughts, feelings and behaviors. By satisfying this need, we can enhance our well-being and happiness, as well as contribute positively to society.

Remember: you are not alone. You belong.

References:

[1] https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2013/eating

[2] Wilson, C., & Moulton, B. (2010) Loneliness among Older Adults: A National Survey of Adults 45+. Prepared by Knowledge Networks and Insight Policy Research. Washington, DC: AARP.

[3] Baumeister R.F., Leary M.R., The need to belong: desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation., Psychological Bulletin 1995;117(3):497-529.

[4] Williams K.D., Ostracism: The power of silence., Guilford Press 2001.

[5] Deci E.L., Ryan R.M., The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior., Psychological Inquiry 2000;11(4):227-268.

The Hidden Truth About Ultra-Processed Food and Addiction: Amanda Leith and Esther Helga Discuss

Guests Amanda Leith  SHiFT, Recovery By Acorn and Esther Helga GuðmundsdóttirINFACT School both experienced the misery of obesity and countless failed diets—until they discovered their real problem: food addiction, a brain disease. Like many late-stage food addicts, they used food to cope with life, consuming far more food than their bodies needed. Once they recognized their addiction, they began abstinent food plans and recovery programs, shedding excess weight and doing the emotional work required to heal. Today, they live at healthy body weights and enjoy freedom from food addiction—one day at a time. Today, they devote their lives to helping others understand and recover from this illness.

Food addiction is a substance use disorder involving ultra-processed foods, similar to alcohol or drug addiction. Amanda and Esther assess clients using food use history and tools like the Yale Food Addiction Scale. Sugar—technically not a food but an additive—has over 260 names and is often hidden in products through deceptive labeling by food companies.

Many of their clients have tried everything to control their food use and/or lose weight, often arriving desperate and willing to try something new. At SHiFT, Amanda guides clients toward abstinence from addictive foods while addressing the emotional drivers behind food use. As cravings and withdrawal pass, clients gain relief from the addiction and obsessive food thoughts and learn to enjoy eating whole, nourishing foods.

Unlike drug or alcohol addiction, we cannot abstain from food entirely, which makes food addiction more complex. Yet the solution lies in abstaining from addictive foods and engaging in emotional recovery work.

Phil Werdellwebsite, a pioneer in the field, greatly influenced Amanda and Esther. His teachings on powerlessness and denial are foundational to their treatment approach, and they credit him for shaping their understanding and protocols.

Amanda explains the difference between emotional eating and true food addiction in this episode. While emotional eaters may recover through therapy alone, food addicts must first remove addictive substances and engage in structured recovery with support. At SHiFT, Recovery By Acorn, food and emotional issues are treated concurrently.

With chronic disease and metabolic dysfunction at crisis levels—primarily driven by poor nutrition, food addiction, and obesity—Esther Helga argues that food companies knowingly exploit this addiction for profit.

The International Food Addiction Conference will hold its second event in London, September 4–5, 2025, highlighting food addiction and its comorbidities. At the 2024 London conference, an influential group of professionals reached a Consensus:   Ultra-Processed Food is a Substance Use Disorder.   Advocacy continues to classify food addiction within the ICD (World Health Organization) and the DSM (American Psychiatric Association), paving the way for insurance coverage of treatment.

Don’t miss this powerful episode as we explore food addiction—its root causes, and the hope of recovery.

Listen now!

Proudly sponsored by:

✨ SHiFT: Recovery by Acorn
Helping people heal from food addiction for over 30 years, SHiFT’s 12-week program and alumni support network offer effective, compassionate care. Schedule your free 30-minute consultation today at foodaddiction.com or call 941-378-2122.

✨ Milestones in Recovery
Located in southeast Florida, Milestones offers residential and outpatient treatment for eating disorders and food addiction, with most insurance plans accepted. Learn more at milestonesprogram.org or call 1-800-347-2364.

We are excited to announce new training options for 2025—designed to offer even more flexibility, accessibility, and global reach for aspiring professionals in the field of food addiction recovery.

📅 Next Certification Cohort Begins:

  • September 19, 2025

🎓 What to Expect from the Program:

  • 170 hours of dynamic and interactive virtual learning
  • Access to our exclusive student platform filled with tools, community support, and essential resources
  • A complete package of comprehensive lectures, a detailed teaching manual, and downloadable course materials
  • Earn the prestigious Certified Food Addiction Professional (CFAP) designation, recognized by the European Certification Board

Whether you're a clinician, counselor, or someone passionate about helping others recover from food addiction, this program is your next step toward making a meaningful impact.

💥 Let’s change lives—starting with yours.

Sign up today!

Our Sponsors

SHiFT: Recovery by Acorn

For over three decades, SHiFT: Recovery by Acorn has been a beacon for individuals struggling with food addiction, guiding countless people toward the freedom of a life without food dependency. As a trailblazer in the field of food addiction treatment, SHiFT commits to uplifting clients from the deep grips of food addiction through innovative and comprehensive treatment programs. Whether it's the fixation on food, weight concerns, or the physical and mental burdens of addiction, SHiFT understands these challenges and offers effective solutions. Their 12-week treatment program, supplemented by extensive alumni support, fosters a profound transformation in participants' relationship with food and their bodies. If you are ready to begin a new chapter in your life, free from food dependency, contact SHiFT to schedule a free 30-minute consultation. Visit their website at foodaddiction.com or call them at 941-378-2122.

Milestones in Recovery

Milestones in Recovery stands as a pivotal resource for individuals battling eating disorders and food addiction, offering both residential and outpatient treatment options. Nestled in the scenic region of southeast Florida, Milestones boasts a modern facility where highly skilled professionals deliver top-tier treatment and support. Patients receive tailored recovery plans that include guided nutritional counseling and strategies to overcome compulsive eating behaviors. With services spanning various eating disorders such as bulimia, anorexia, and binge-eating disorder, Milestones ensures comprehensive care. Most health insurance plans are accepted, making it accessible for many seeking help. Take the first step toward a fulfilling and liberated life; contact Milestones to learn more about their programs and how they can assist in your recovery journey. Visit their website at milestonesprogram.org or call 1-800-347-2364 today.

Learn more about SHiFT!
Learn more about Milestones!
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
LinkedIn
http://www.infactschool.com
YouTube
Email
Copyright © 2025 INFACT SCHOOL, All rights reserved.
You were subscribed to the newsletter from INFACT SCHOOL

Our mailing address is:
INFACT SCHOOL
Sidumuli 33,
Reykjavík 108
Iceland

Add us to your address book


Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

Email Marketing Powered by Mailchimp

You have Successfully Subscribed!