This time of year can be incredibly challenging for those of us who have dealt with or are currently in recovery for an eating disorder.
From October through the end of December, we are surrounded by an overindulgence of food.
The stores are packed with giant bags of Halloween candy, our friends throw parties, and maybe we go to an office party too.
Then it’s Thanksgiving, when we might go to more than one dinner and where it’s normal to overeat. We are told it’s okay to gain a few pounds; we’re supposed to. This strikes fear into us; Ed ramps up and our anxiety grows as the day approaches. I vividly remember severely restricting my caloric intact before Thanksgiving dinner as a teenager.
And then Christmas, while indeed a magical time, it’s when Ed is the strongest. There’s Christmas candy, cookie swaps, parties, food gifts, baked goods galore, and big dinners. Ed is working overtime.
And after months of heightened anxiety, restricting and feeling guilty after eating a holiday meal, we are bombarded with advertisements centered on losing weight come New Year’s Day. “Try this overpriced meal plan! Take this miracle pill! Do this workout and finally achieve the perfect body!” The ads are everywhere – TV, radio, social media. Our friends and family talk about weight loss, “January 1st is the start of my new diet!”
You get it. This time of year is hard for people who hear Ed every day.
So if you know someone with an eating disorder, please refrain from talking about weight gain or weight loss. I know it will inevitably come up in group conversation, but you could be the one person to shut it down and help ease the stress.
Please don’t stare at us or our plate. We can tell.
Please don’t comment on what we’re eating.
Ask us how we’re doing.
Be supportive. If you have a great relationship with the person, say, “Hey, I know this time of year can be challenging. Please know that I’m here for you.”
Find activities that aren’t centered around food.
Please be patient. Please be kind. We’re doing our best.
Happy Holidays.
