People who struggle with eating disorders are more apt to experience higher levels of anxiety than others during the Holiday season, and their go-to tools to manage their anxiety–including starvation, bingeing, purging or over-exercising–can be unhealthy and sometimes even life-threatening.
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Add the pressures felt by sufferers to people-please while at parties and gatherings to the common holiday stressors, and you have a situation that can compel those with eating disorders to resort to worrisome thoughts and behaviors in an effort to manage their anxious feelings.
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Here are some strategies that can help manage eating disorder anxieties during the Holidays:
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Shift the focus from food to family and friends.
For some, rich seasonal fare and sweets can make eating in moderation difficult. For others, overabundant food and large meals can cause anxiety. Be aware of self-boundaries and only accept food is typically a part of Holiday get-togethers. Turn the focus to meaningful interaction with family and friends instead of the bounty and variety of food available.
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Lean on a supportive network.
Being surrounded with people that have positive relationships with food and their bodies is a great help. Additionally, stay in close contact with outpatient treatment professionals — including psychiatrists, therapists and dietitians. The discussion of feelings,victories and challenges with others as they arise and before issues become significant enough to threaten recovery can be very beneficial.
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Practice self-kindness and patience.
The perfectionist minds of those suffering from eating disorders can make it difficult for them to accept when events do not go as planned, especially during the Holiday season. It must be remembered that one perceived misstep does not make or break the recovery progress. Consistency in demonstrating personal pride for making an effort — however big or small and whatever the outcome — goes a long way.
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To read the full article, click HERE.
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Entertainment News and Information as featured on The Selena J Show — KMJM Majic 100.3 (Delivered by MELISASource)
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