Christmas is all about food, which is a blessing for some but a curse for others. The experts recommend taking precautions and planning in advance if you are struggling with an eating disorder, and being mindful of others if you're not.
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One in every six adults is at risk of developing an eating disorder
At least 1.25 million people in the UK are struggling with an eating disorder. The NHS estimates that one in every six adults is at risk of developing it, and the vast majority of people with the condition are within a ‘normal’ weight range.
Despite stereotypes and tropes, eating disorders can affect anyone of any age, race, gender, sexuality or background.
Director of external affairs at Beat, a leading eating disorder charity, Tom Quinn says:
There’s a huge emphasis on food, and the pressure to eat large amounts can be triggering for people with binge eating disorder and bulimia, as well as causing anxiety for people with anorexia.
According to Quinn, it’s important to be mindful of others. People with eating disorders often try to hide their illness and at Christmas, when eating is a social occasion, they may feel ashamed and want to isolate themselves from others.
Christmas can be a source of distress for families who are caring for someone with an eating disorder.
How can you look after yourself at this time of year?
Preparation here is key. It’s important to plan ahead and openly discuss when and how food will be involved over the Christmas period, so you know what to expect and don’t have to make decisions on the spot.
Quinn advises:
If you feel up to it, have a ‘practice meal’ with a trusted loved one and reflect on how you feel before, during and after.
You could agree on a sign to discreetly show when you need support and encouragement, either during a meal or socially.
It can help to steer attention away from food, so once meals are over, find activities that focus on something else – such as a family walk, playing board games, or watching a funny film together.
Having this planned can give you something to look forward to and help balance any difficult emotions.
Quinn adds:
If you’re caring for a loved one who’s unwell, you could have a quiet word with any visitors before they arrive, as well-intended being aware that comments such as ‘Don’t you look healthy?’ or ‘Haven’t you done well eating your dinner?’ could be misinterpreted and cause more harm than good.
How can you recover if this period does trigger you?
If you start to recognise eating disorder thoughts or behaviours occurring, or think you may be at risk of relapsing, speak to your GP or care team at the very earliest opportunity.
According to Quinn, if you feel comfortable doing so, it can also be helpful to speak to your support networks, such as trusted friends or family members, about what you’re going through.
He underlines that recovery is possible – even with a relapse.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article: text, graphics, images, and other materials contained, are strictly for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice, or treatment. Please always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with all the questions that you have related to, or about, a medical condition.
Sources used:
- Metro: 'How to cope with an eating disorder over Christmas'
