For most, the holidays are a wonderful time to celebrate and eat with family, friends, and significant others. On the other hand, it is also a daunting time for people who struggle with eating disorders. It feels like you’re trapped in your own personal hell. Between fighting with yourself, you’re also trying to put on a facade of happiness for the people around you.
Notice the triggers
Knowing what some of their triggers are can help so much. If certain foods or certain situations cause a hard time, try to avoid them. Don’t serve certain things if you know they struggle with it, because it will just make it harder. Instead, ask them what foods they want and what they’re okay with. Also, letting them make they’re own plate might help. Having someone else serve you a plate of what you think you should eat, could cause a spiral of fear. Them making their own plate allows them to be in control.
offer support
Offering your support can alleviate some of their anxiety. Let them know that you’re there for them and that they’re not alone in this hard time. For example, if you see your loved one having a hard time or struggling, you could ask them if they want to go on a walk to talk about it in private, or you could offer doing a different activity that might take their mind off of it. Do not bring up weight loss, diets, praise them for eating, or commenting on how much or little they ate. Be patient and kind with them during this time.
Educate yourself
Before jumping in and trying to help, research and learn everyone you can. There many astigmatisms around eating disorders, so doing this will give you a better understanding. It can also help your loved one open up and talk to you. Here are some links that might help:
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/common-eating-disorders
- https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/help/caregivers/support
- https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/resources/family-support-guidelines-your-loved-one-has-eating-disorder
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