Why summer is a great time to work on recovery!
Dealing with eating disorders can be tough, especially during the hustle of the school year. While seeking eating disorder treatment at any time is important, starting your recovery journey in the summer can be really beneficial! Summer is all about fun, making new friends, and trying new things. With fewer school pressures and more time for yourself, it’s the perfect season to focus on self-care and take steps towards healing. In this blog, we’ll explore why starting eating disorder therapy this summer is a great idea.
No Academic Pressure
The stress of schoolwork can sometimes make it tough to focus on healthy eating habits. This pressure to excel can lead to feelings of disappointment or anxiety that might worsen eating disorder symptoms. However, summer brings more free time and energy, making it a great opportunity to focus on recovery, learn new coping strategies, and really take care of yourself! This period can also be convenient for young adults as they often go home for summer break, making this period a more convenient time for treatment. You might also have a more open schedule and more opportunities to schedule a session with your provider.
Increased Triggers
Summer can bring about more triggers than usual, such as wearing lighter clothing like tank tops and shorts, which can lead to comparisons. There are also more social gatherings with food-centric events like barbecues and parties, which can be stressful for those with disordered eating. Additionally, social media may be filled with people showing their bodies, which can worsen negative body image issues. You might find having more free time to be triggering. Sometimes once we are free from distractions and activities our ED voices get louder and we have more time for ruminating thoughts about body image. It can all feel overwhelming, but seeking professional help can provide strategies to manage these triggers and reduce anxiety and stress, making summer more enjoyable.
Need for Extra Support
As you face more triggers, you’ll need more support to stay strong. While having trusted friends and family is fantastic and crucial, a professional healthcare team has expertise in managing eating disorder recovery, offering tailored guidance, coping strategies, and other interventions to help you navigate anxious thoughts and stay on track with your eating disorder recovery journey. Their specialized knowledge and support can make a significant difference in your journey toward recovery and a healthier relationship with food.
This is a great time to work with your Registered Dietitian
Dietitians are here to not just listen but also to empower you with knowledge, coping skills, and encouragement to handle triggers confidently. Our goal at Nutrition Braved is to help you rediscover the joy of eating and truly savor your meals. We want you to have a blast this summer, whether you’re off on exciting adventures, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying the sunshine. You deserve to make the most of every moment stress-free, and we’re here to support you all the way!
Interested in working with us? Feel free to schedule a free 15-minute consultation to determine if we are a good fit for you! You can call at 630-474-5321 or submit your information here and we’ll reach out to you shortly.
