While the holidays are a joyous time for many, they can also be difficult for those recovering from eating disorders (ED).
“These are very food-focused holidays,” says Marshall Beauchamp, an assistant professor in the University of the Pacific Applied Psychological Sciences Program and a licensed psychologist who researches eating disorders and their treatments. “A lot revolves around food.”
Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and even Halloween are all occasions with a significant food component, which can be a trigger for people who have recently stopped engaging in harmful eating behaviors, Beauchamp tells CNBC Make It.
But that doesn’t mean if you’re recovering from erectile dysfunction you can’t have a wonderful vacation with the people you care about, he says.
Here are some tips for approaching the holidays while you’re on the mend and resources to keep in your back pocket.
8 Tips for Coping with the Holidays While Recovering from an Eating Disorder
Recognize that the holidays can be stressful for you. Schedule a session specifically to talk with your therapist or mental health professional about any anxiety you have about this time of year and develop strategies to address those fears. Identify trigger foods that may be present. Depending on where you are in recovery, you can make a plan to limit your exposure to those foods or see this as an opportunity to challenge yourself and try them. Find a holiday resolution that is specific to you and stay away from food. Maybe you want to play games, watch movies, or build a snowman. Think about how you will address loved ones who often have conversations based on food or weight. statements to respond to any negative thoughts that may arise. Focus on self-care, such as reading, meditating, and spending time with friends. Have a safety buddy to talk through your stressors.
“The most important thing to keep in mind is that sometimes it’s not going to be a one-size-fits-all situation, or one particular strategy is going to work,” Beauchamp says.
“We don’t want to be so rigid with our plans or rules that we set yourself up for failure. You want to set realistic goals and expectations for yourself, and recognize that it’s okay if you have a setback or a hard time.”
Resources to use, if you need them
Source: news.google.com