The holidays can be challenging because they can be a busy and stressful time. It’s important we recognize this and are compassionate towards ourselves and others.
The holidays may be especially challenging for folks living with eating disorders. Many holiday traditions are centred around eating, which can trigger feelings of anxiety. If we are more aware of how this can affect our loved ones, we can be better equipped to support them through the holidays.
Provide Additional Support
For some, the holidays may expose many “challenge foods,” and this can be a hurdle to get through when it comes to holiday meals and traditions. It’s important to let our loved ones know that we are here to support them and that there is a safe space for them to ask for support when needed.
Before the holidays, our loved ones can discuss possible triggers with their treatment team and how to cope with them. Our loved ones can share these coping mechanisms with us. Discussing coping mechanisms and planning ahead of time can minimize anxiety around meals. Remind your loved one that “all foods fit,” while being compassionate and aware that this may be difficult for them.
Check out our Positive Coping Skills playlist on YouTube to learn skills your child can use throughout the holidays.
Language at the Dinner Table
For many, this is a time of year when the family gets together, many of whom we may not see on a regular basis. Even with the best intentions, the language around dieting or weight may be brought up by extended family members, which can create an uncomfortable situation for your loved one. Talk to family members before getting together, and kindly let them know that these topics should not be discussed. Diet culture has taught us that it’s “normal” to talk about weight, dieting, New Year’s resolutions, or eating “too much” at a holiday dinner. It’s important to work together as a family to change this norm.
Move the Focus Away from Food
Although many holiday traditions are centred around food, we can shift the focus to what the holiday is truly about and prioritize spending time as a family. Plan some activities that don’t revolve around food, such as playing games or building a snowman. Scheduling these activities can help distract from disordered thoughts and engaging in activities after mealtimes can help distract your loved one from purging behaviours.
Create a Plan
If your loved has a prescribed meal plan, stick to it, and eat together as a family. Modelling consistent and positive eating habits can help ease anxiety around meals. It’s important to remember not to “save up” for a big meal, as this supports the idea of restricting intake and can also put more pressure on shared holiday meals.
Have a plan for mealtimes to support your child, whether it’s modelling portion sizes, setting a pace for eating, or just showing compassion and letting them know it’s okay to ask for support.
Recovery is different for everyone, and the process is not linear. Family support is key in giving folks the best chance at recovery. Our team is here to help. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help, you can book a free consultation call with us.
