Coping with eating disorders during a COVID-19 holiday season

The most wonderful time of year for some can be the most difficult for people experiencing an eating disorder. 

Holiday expectations around socializing and food can contribute to anxiety and pressure according to Shaleen Jones, executive director of Eating Disorders Nova Scotia.

“Often we use food to celebrate, to show love, and we bring families together around food, and so if you are struggling with issues surrounding food and weight, eating and not eating, having a food-centric season can be stressful,” she says. 

Jones says eating disorders have the ability to replace the magic of Christmas, with distorted, self-critical attitudes about body image. 

“Being around foods that you might not be comfortable with, seeing family members you maybe haven't seen in a while, meeting the expectations of a perfect Christmas,” she says. “There can be a lot of layers contributing to the challenges folks face during this time.”

The National Eating Disorders Information Centre estimates about one million Canadians, or three per cent of the population, are living with an eating disorder, which is known to be the most fatal of all mental illness. It says many factors can influence the development of an eating disorder including genetics, personality, and cultural norms about food and appearance. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a perfect storm for people with an eating disorder or in recovery, with the illness thriving in secrecy and isolation. But Jones says, this year's low-key celebrations might bring a much-needed break from the traditional pressure of the holidays. 

“We have orders right now to not gather in large groups, and having smaller group-sizes might end up being helpful for folks, with less fan-fare alleviating some of that distress,” she says. 

Even in smaller groups, Jones suggests avoiding conversations about weight and appearance, as it could unintentionally cause low self-esteem and negative body image for people with or without an eating disorder. 

She raises specific concerns about jokes surrounding weight gain during the pandemic like 'quarantine 15,' or 'COVID curves.'

“Be aware of language we may use that could potentially berate or size shame, and recognize that if we have had the privilege of gaining a few pounds, we are very fortunate to be in that position,” she says. 

Showing compassion, and listening non-judgmentally to a friend or family member dealing with an eating disorder can also make a big difference. 

“Having a conversation with them about what will be helpful is a great approach,” she says. “Coming up with a plan together to support them getting through this time and coming out of the holidays feeling okay.”

Eating Disorders Nova Scotia will be offering its online peer support chat throughout the holidays. The free program is open to anyone experiencing disordered eating in Canada, and no diagnosis or referral is needed.

The National Eating Disorders Information Centre will also be operating its helpline and instant chat throughout the holidays. 

“There are a lot of supports that are available, and we are encouraging folks to reach out if they feel they could use a little extra help,” she says. 

Like many organizations, Eating Disorders Nova Scotia has been working to meet an increased demand for supports since March. 

“When the pandemic first started we saw about a 412 per cent increase in folks who are asking for support,” she says. “We've grown and stretched as much as we can, and we are just hoping we can keep up with the community need in the future months and years.”

Eating Disorders Nova Scotia operates on the mandate that no one should have to face an eating disorder alone. Donations to help fuel recovery can be made on its website.