Summertime is normally associated with warm temperatures, long days, and loads of outdoor activities.
Typically most people look forward to and enjoy the summer months where social connection seems high and fun is in the air. However, if you are working on recovering from an eating disorder the summertime months can be very stressful. Instead of dreaming about going to the lake, the beach, and BBQs with friends, you are worried about how you will manage all of those events.
Here are a few tips to help you handle your day with more ease:
Eat Like It’s a Normal Day:
Don’t skip meals or restrict your intake earlier in the day to “save” calories for the BBQ. Stick to your regular eating schedule that you & your treatment team have established.
Set Boundaries:
Be clear about your boundaries regarding food and conversations. If discussions about diet, weight, or appearance arise, gently steer the conversation to a different topic or excuse yourself.
Focus on Socializing:
Shift your focus from food to socializing. Engage in conversations, participate in activities, and enjoy the company of friends and family. Of course, the food aspect may be challenging AND it is one part of the event and merely an excuse for people to gather & connect.
Practice Mindfulness:
Use mindfulness techniques to stay present and reduce anxiety. Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues, and see what food items you actually enjoy.
Have a Support System:
Bring a supportive friend or family member who understands your situation. Having someone to talk to can provide comfort and help you stay grounded when the overwhelm starts to arise.
Use Coping Strategies:
Have a list of coping strategies ready in case you start feeling overwhelmed. This might include deep breathing, identifying 5 things you can see or hear, or stepping away for a few minutes of alone time.
Set Realistic Expectations:
Recognize that it’s okay to feel anxious or uncomfortable. Recovery is a journey, and those who love you will be happy you are there and doing your best.
Plan for Afterwards:
Have a plan for after the BBQ to decompress and practice self-care. This could involve talking to a trusted friend, journaling about your experience, or engaging in a relaxing activity.
One Meal & One BBQ At A Time-
It’s important to remind yourself before, during, and after that this is one BBQ. Meaning that one meal can’t make or break your weight, your recovery, or your relationships. Sometimes it’s easy to put so much emphasis on things that are new or daunting. Your treatment team will help you plan for these events and help you see what went well and what went differently than hoped for after each summertime event.
What we wish recovery looked like and actually looks like are often two different things.
Life can be messy and progress in any area always takes trial and error, rinse & repeat. Anytime you are trying to show up in your life & participate is a win! And in time, and with curiosity & generosity for yourself, things will get better and BBQs will become more enjoyable.
Start Working with An Eating Disorder Therapist in Provo, UT
If you feel you need more support restoring peace to your relationship with food or your body, contact our team of caring therapists. Help is available and you don’t have to do it alone. You can start your therapy journey with Inside Wellness by following these simple steps:
Contact us or call at 801-699-6161.
Meet with a caring therapist
Start changing your story!
Other Services Offered with Inside Wellness
Eating disorder treatment isn’t the only service Inside Wellness offers support with addressing. Our team is happy to offer support with other forms of mental health support including anxiety treatment and body image therapy. Learn more about the support in person or online therapy can offer today by visiting our blog or FAQ today.