
Christmas is a particularly difficult time for families and sufferers of eating disorders, with celebrations often centred around food. Covid-19 restrictions may mean you have additional worries about the festive period.
If you are feeling anxious, worried or stressed about the upcoming festivities – it’s completely normal and you are not alone in feeling that way.
Here are some tips and strategies to help see you through.
Remind those who know about the eating disorder not to comment on appearance, or what/how much food is being eaten.
Provide family and friends with information to help them understand more about eating disorders.
Remember the level of anxiety an eating disorder provokes in the person with an eating disorder and you as care giver. Support each other in a non-judgmental way.
Actively avoid talking about dieting, making weight or appearance related comments (about anyone).
Avoid those New Year weight loss goals especially, instead model acceptance and enjoyment.
Try and achieve a relaxed, normal environment, which will help the person to remember that mealtimes are a healthy part of everyday life and social celebration.
The information, resources and links below are to help support some concerns you may have and support you to make plans to take care of your wellbeing.
Access Centre Number - 0300 300 0099
Postal Address - 5th Floor, 1 Printing House Street, Birmingham, B4 6DF
Access Centre operating hours - Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm