Newswise — The holiday season is synonymous with eating. That focus on food can make it a difficult time of year for those in treatment for or recovering from an eating disorder, says Stacey Cahn, PhD, associate professor of psychology at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
For the friends and family members of someone in recovery from an eating disorder, Cahn says the main thing to remember is that the responsibility of eating lies with the individual. “Don’t push them—they know what they need to do,” she says. “Otherwise, it can turn into a tug-of-war at the dinner table that is counter-productive.” In addition, it can be helpful for the family to let their loved one know in advance what will be served.
She also suggests that family can help by keeping the conversation light, and avoiding any talk about weight, shape, food or calories. “It’s important for the whole family to get on board,” Cahn says. “They need to come across as allies and supporters, so their loved one doesn't feel as though he or she is being ambushed or controlled.”
For those in treatment or recovery, Cahn says there are several things they can do to help alleviate the stress associated with holiday eating:● Create a menu of scheduled meals, in advance, for the whole holiday weekend. Cahn says this can help take some of the pressure off at mealtimes. The individual can then choose to share their menu with friends or family, if they think it might help. ● Having a meal plan also provides an objective, measurable benchmark to evaluate how the weekend went. For those currently in treatment, their treatment team should be able to help with menu plans. ● He or she should also consider how they will spend their time. Planning activities in advance can help reduce alone time, which can help reduce anxiety.
If a friend or family member suspects a loved one might have an eating disorder, Cahn offers these signs to look for: ● Significant weight loss or weight fluctuations. ● Showing up to mealtime after everyone else has eaten, or stating he or she “just ate.”● Preoccupation with food, calories, exercise, shape, and weight.● Appearing to be depressed, fatigued, or preoccupied● Disappearing after meals—often to the bathroom
“If you’re noticing any of these signs, describe your observations and share your concern in a caring way,” Cahn says. “Having the support of friends and family is a predictor of positive outcome for those struggling with an eating disorder.”
Cahn notes that recommendations will vary depending on the age of the individual, as well as the severity of the disorder, so she advises contacting one’s treatment provider for more specific information. To learn more, visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.
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