Navigating Thanksgiving While In Eating Disorder Recovery
Navigating Thanksgiving While In Eating Disorder Recovery
Thanksgiving is a time of celebration and gratitude, but for many people, especially for people recovering from an eating disorder, the holidays can be daunting and create real anxiety. Food-centered holidays, like Thanksgiving, can be especially difficult. It is completely understandable that this time of year might bring up feelings of uneasiness, fear, or even sadness. Although these moments might feel especially challenging, you can still celebrate and have a wonderful holiday season, even in recovery. Here are a few helpful suggestions this holiday season:
Prioritize self-care. Do things that support your well-being and are fulfilling to you. This time of year can be challenging, and it’s important to prioritize your own emotional health, whatever that looks like to you.
Dress up or dress down, but dress comfortably. This is an important one: when it comes to choosing an outfit for the holiday dinner, wear something that feels most comfortable. Some people enjoy dressing up, wearing makeup, and doing their hair. If this is you, then go for it! If you are the type of person who would rather be comfortable in sweats and a hoodie, that is okay too! Being physically comfortable in your body makes a profound difference in your emotional experiences. Most importantly, be authentic to you!
Set boundaries. Remember, you are not required to talk about yourself or your body, even if family members do. If it feels safe and comfortable, you might express to your family that you would prefer not to discuss calories or weight at the dinner table, or anywhere for that matter. If you don’t feel comfortable asking this beforehand, remind yourself that you can step away from the table at any time. You don’t owe anyone an explanation; you only owe yourself love and support. It can be helpful to remind family members that talking about weight, calories or any food topics is extremely boring and you would rather speak about exciting things in your life. Shift the conversation to things that you enjoy speaking about.
Avoid social media and weight-loss websites. While this is a good thing for someone with an eating disorder to avoid year-round, it is especially important around the holidays. I’ve always noticed that around Thanksgiving, there are countless Instagram posts, television and Facebook ads telling us how we can “lose weight after a big meal!” Don’t subject yourself to this information; it is not helpful or healthy. These ads are mere reflections of diet culture that prioritizes thinness and ‘fitness.’ Be aware of their motivations. These companies are capitalizing on insecurities and are not backed by science. Remember your worth is SO much more than your body. YOU are MORE than a body.
Check in with yourself. While you are enjoying holiday foods, check in with yourself and monitor your emotions. Are you stressed, upset, angry or distracted? Recognize any emotions coming up and hold space for these important emotions. Make a note in your phone to revisit these emotions later or maybe text a friend about how you are feeling. Stay attuned to your body and be gentle with yourself. We encourage you to engage in positive, kind, loving self-talk. Remind yourself that you are doing the best you can, and that is always enough!
Thanksgiving is not just about food. It is a time to reflect on all the wonderful things you are grateful for—maybe it’s the supportive friends and family you have, the beautiful autumn weather, or simply gratitude for yourself.
Hopefully, these suggestions will inspire you to have a wonderful Thanksgiving and feel empowered in your recovery.
If you are experiencing challenges in your eating disorder recovery or increased stress during the holiday season, we can help. Schedule your free 15 minute consultation today.
Please email us with any questions or inquiries at hello@thropetherapy.com
