Coping with Eating Disorders in the Holiday Season
SAMEEKA PRABATH – For many, the holidays are a time for joy and festivity. The lights, candles, and carols usher in a comforting time of year. However, it’s essential to realize that this may not be everyone’s experience. Many people struggling with eating disorders find the holiday season difficult. The abundance of social gatherings and traditions, many of which are centered around food, can be triggering.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Eating disorder is a broad term for many different conditions, like anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge eating disorder. Anyone could be at risk for having them, but it seems to be caused by a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Currently, nearly 30 million Americans have a diagnosed eating disorder. Moreover, many Americans admit that the stress of the holidays changes their relationship with food. During the holidays, there is an increased pressure to indulge in feasts. At the same time, the gathering of family and friends can encourage unwarranted discussion about dieting and body image.
The norms of indulging and feasts could lead to a feeling of guilt and anxiety surrounding eating habits, which could lead to isolation and loneliness. However, avoiding these social gatherings can lead to feeling disconnected, leading to the risk of relapses.
Planning ahead could help alleviate some of this anxiety. This could mean visualizing how to handle triggering situations and having an exit plan if the situation gets too overwhelming. It may help to bring a trusted friend to social events. Furthermore, practicing self-compassion and stress relief tools like journaling may help. A licensed therapist can act as a guide in navigating the holiday season.
Understanding these challenges is also important in extending support. Encouraging open conversations and steering away from talking about weight and body image can help those struggling with eating disorders. Furthermore, having a variety of activities, including those not revolving around food and respecting individual boundaries can help create a more supportive environment.
By acknowledging eating disorders, the holiday season could become a safer environment for those who have a harder time with it. Creating an inclusive environment can make a significant difference to those struggling with eating disorders.
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The National Eating Disorders Association provides several resources for people struggling with Eating Disorders:
National Eating Disorders Association Helpline: (800) 931-2237
Information about Eating Disorders
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