The holidays can be an overwhelming assortment of emotions for a lot of people. Eating Disorder recovery can put a new spin on things. The holidays can be fun and exciting, or painful and difficult to navigate, often a mixture of both. Nevertheless, they can illicit memories good and bad. So, let’s talk about surviving them or even enjoying them! The first order of business is making a plan! Plan what you have the energy to do including, finances, time constraints, and who or who you don’t want to see. Prioritize holiday events, traditions, foods, or loved ones that bring you joy. Boundaries. Lots of boundaries both internal and external. Stick to a meal plan that feels doable to you that may or may not include Intuitive Eating. Remember holiday food, is just food at the end of the day.
Urges! Let's talk Binge urges, restriction, exercise, whatever your old coping is, when things get hard urges can get loud. Take extra time using your specific coping tools and be kind to yourself if you struggle. Give yourself permission to eat and enjoy in ways that matter to you.
Don’t forget to meet with your therapist and treatment team!
For Family and Friends:
Here are some quick tips about what to say to a loved one recovering from an eating disorder.
Well, the short and sweet and is nothing, and when I say nothing I mean, don’t comment on what they are wearing, how they look, or especially what they are or aren’t eating.
If you care, let them know it by being present. Let them know that you are here if they need you, and continue to enforce that truth by providing an open space for them.
Remember, January will be here in no time.
Please reach out you if are interested in learning more about Eating Disorder treatment, recovery and therapy. My office is located in Claremont and it conveniently neighbors La Verne, San Dimas, Upland, Ontario, Glendora, Rancho Cucamonga, and other Inland Empire, Orange County, and Los Angeles County cities.
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