Coping with Eating Disorders During Easter

Easter, a time often associated with colourful eggs, chocolate bunnies, and festive meals, can be particularly challenging for individuals navigating eating disorders. Amidst the abundance of holiday treats and societal expectations to indulge, those struggling with their relationship with food and body image may find themselves grappling with heightened anxiety, guilt, and shame. However, it's essential to recognise that you are not alone in facing these challenges and that there are strategies to help you prioritise your well-being during this season of celebration.

Our Li-THRED team, with input from our lived experience collaborator, Hayley Stanich, have put together a range of tips, resources and supports, with the goal of making this time a little less stressful and more enjoyable for yourself or your loved one. Sprinkled throughout this article are “Easter eggs” (practical tips for you or your loved one to use to make the holidays a little easier, in addition to a “bonus egg” for those interested in participating in our research!).

“What does Easter mean to you? Although Easter can feel like a very food-focused time, try to remember there is more to the holiday than just eating. Easter is a celebration of hope, fresh beginnings, and rebirth – a day to recognise the triumph of light over dark and joy over sorrow.” – Hayley Stanich, lived experience collaborator

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It's okay to acknowledge that Easter celebrations may trigger difficult emotions surrounding food and body image. Recognising and validating your feelings is the first step towards finding healthier coping mechanisms. Give yourself permission to feel, and remember that your emotions are valid.

   
   Easter Egg #1: Take a few moments each day leading up to Easter to check in with yourself and acknowledge any emotions or thoughts that arise. Journaling or meditations can be helpful tools for processing these feelings in a constructive way.

   
   
   Easter Egg #2: Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist to share your feelings and receive support. Sometimes, simply verbalising your emotions can help alleviate their intensity and provide a sense of relief.

2. Plan Ahead: Before Easter gatherings, create a plan to navigate potential triggers and challenges. Consider eating balanced meals or snacks beforehand to avoid feelings of extreme hunger or deprivation, which can lead to bingeing or restriction. Having a plan in place can provide a sense of control in situations that may feel overwhelming.

Easter Egg #3: If you anticipate feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of Easter treats, establish a plan for how you’ll navigate these situations. This could involve practicing mindful eating techniques or arranging for a support person to check in with throughout the event.

Easter Egg #4: Pack a self-care kit to bring with you to Easter gatherings, including items that help soothe and comfort you during moments of stress and anxiety. This could include a journal, stress-relief tools like fidget toys or stress balls, or a playlist of calming music or guided meditations.

“What do you feel comfortable doing? Don’t pressure yourself to participate in something you don’t want to. You are always allowed to say no and it’s perfectly ok to take a break if needed. If you’re worried about feeling left out, why not suggest an Easter activity you do feel comfortable with instead? Painting eggs, Easter trivia, an Easter-themed dress-up, attending an Easter sermon, watching an Easter movie…not everything has to be food-focussed.” – Hayley Stanich., lived experience collaborator

3. Practice Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself and practice self-compassion as you navigate Easter festivities. Remember that recovery from an eating disorder is a journey, and setbacks are a natural part of the process. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing similar challenges.

Easter Egg #5: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, especially if you experience setbacks or difficult emotions during Easter celebrations. Remind yourself that recovery from an eating disorder is a journey, and it’s normal to experience ups and downs along the way.

Easter Egg #6: Practice positive self-talk by challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with affirming statements. Instead of criticising yourself for perceived flaws or mistakes, focus on your strengths and resilience.

4. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out for professional support if you're struggling to cope with your eating disorder during Easter. Therapists, dietitians, and support groups specialising in eating disorders can offer guidance, encouragement, and coping strategies tailored to your individual needs.

Easter Egg #7: Schedule a session with a therapist or counsellor to discuss your concerns and develop coping strategies tailored to your individual needs.

Easter Egg #8: Consider joining a support group or an online community for individuals with eating disorders. Connecting with others who understand what you are going through can provide validation and a sense of feeling understood.

Easter Egg #9: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, reach out to a trusted friend, a family member, or helpline for immediate support. You don’t have to face your challenges alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate difficult moments.

Takeaways:

Navigating Easter celebrations while coping with an eating disorder can present unique challenges, but with the right strategies and support, it's possible to prioritise your well-being and find moments of joy and connection during this holiday season. Remember that you are not alone, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By acknowledging your emotions, planning ahead, practicing self-compassion, and seeking support, you can navigate Easter with resilience and self-care.

Remember, your well-being is worth prioritising, especially during the holidays. You deserve support, compassion, and understanding as you continue on your journey towards recovery.

“Live in the moment! Although easier said than done, at the end of the day Easter only lasts for a short time. Try not to worry about what you’re going to do or not do, and make the most of the holiday instead. There is no ‘correct’ way to spend the day. Take a few deep breaths and know that whatever happens, everything will be ok.” – Hayley Stanich, lived experience collaborator

Easter Egg #10: Consider learning more about our anorexia nervosa clinical trials if you are interested in a unique opportunity to explore novel treatments while contributing to vital research. Reach out to our friendly research team at THRED@monash.edu to find out more.

Resources:

Butterfly National 1800 334 673(08:00AM to 12:00AM midnight, 7 days

Helpline confidential support from qualified mental health workers)

Email: support@thebutterflyfoundation.org.au

Webchat: https://butterfly.org.au/get-support/chat-online/

Eating Disorders 1300 550 236 (09:30AM – 4:30PM, Monday to Friday)

Victoria email:hub@eatingdisorders.org.au

A confidential service providing information and peer support for people experiencing eating disorders or those who are supporting them

Eating Disorders Families Website: https://www.edfa.org.au/

Australia

National Eating Disorder Website: www.nedc.com.au

Collaboration Provides up-to-date information and research on eating disorders. It also provides a list of state-by-state treatment services for inpatient, outpatient and community support programs in their ‘Services and Support Organisations’ section