Understanding Overeating: Why It Happens and How to Respond with Kindness in Brisbane

Overeating is something I see and support daily here in Brisbane, and it’s at the heart of my approach on supporttostopovereating.com.au.  Whether you’re struggling with overeating yourself or supporting someone who is, understanding why it happens and responding with a compassionate, whole-person approach is key.  If you’re in Brisbane—or anywhere in Australia—know that you’re not alone. Together, we can build a kinder and more empowered relationship with food and our bodies.

What is Overeating?

At its core, overeating means turning to food in response to our feelings rather than for physical hunger. This might look like reaching for snacks when we’re stressed, celebrating with food, or eating simply to distract ourselves from uncomfortable emotions.  In Brisbane, where fast-paced living and high expectations are common, mindless overeating can easily become a hidden coping mechanism—even for those of us who seem outwardly to have it all together.

Why Does Overeating Happen?

From my experience supporting people in Brisbane, overeating often develops as a coping strategy, it helps us to manage our difficult emotions, life’s ups and downs, recurring stresses, and past traumas.  Many people I work with have learned to use food as a soothing companion when other supports haven’t been available. This is where a whole-person understanding becomes all important.

We recognise that our coping strategies—including overeating—are unconscious attempts at managing overwhelming feelings and protecting ourselves. This perspective replaces our unkind self-judgment with curiosity and compassion, asking not “What’s wrong with me?” but “What happened to me?”  And “yes, it makes sense that I might feel this way – and what other ways could I help myself that are more enjoyable and less costly?”

Moving Beyond Self-Blame for Overeating

When overeating shows up, it’s common to feel shame or frustration.  But these responses can reinforce the cycle, making it even harder to explore what’s really going on.  I encourage a compassionate response by inviting gentle self-inquiry: What am I feeling? What do I need right now? Am I truly hungry, or is something else going on?  And whatever it is, allow it to be without fighting with it, if possible.

Self-compassion isn’t about letting ourselves off the hook—it’s about recognizing our struggles and responding as we would to a dear friend. When we approach emotional eating with curiosity and kindness, we start to untangle the beliefs and patterns that have kept us stuck.

Whole-Person Tips for Managing Overeating in Brisbane

• Notice without judgement: Begin by observing when, where, and why your overeating happens.  In my work across Brisbane, I’ve found that simple awareness practices—like checking in with your body before you eat, and taking one short pause —can make a big difference.
• Explore gentle coping tools: Consider a walk by the river, journaling, or connecting with a loved one or an unconditionally-loving pet.  These are all soft ways to care for yourself, particularly when difficult emotions arise.
• Seek support: Whether it’s with a therapist, support group, or compassionate peers in Brisbane, connection helps us all feel less alone and more empowered to respond differently.
• Practice patience: Healing your relationship with food is a journey, not a quick fix.  Each small compassionate response you give your energy to adds up over time to help fill up your love-tank.

The Brisbane Community: You’re Not Alone

Being in Brisbane means we have access to a vibrant, caring community.  If you’re navigating emotional eating, reach out—resources and all kinds of support are available.

Conclusion: Hope and Healing are Possible

Overeating isn’t a personal failure—it’s a learned response, often rooted in past trauma and emotional pain we don’t yet understand.  When we respond with compassionate curiosity, especially here in Brisbane, we create space for true healing.  I invite you to explore other kind ways to meet your needs and know that supporttostopovereating.com.au is always here to help. Together, let’s rewrite our stories around food, one compassionate response at a time.