How to deal with eating disorders during the holiday season? Know here

Although many people consider Christmas the opportune moment to satisfy their taste buds, the period can be equally triggering for those struggling with an eating disorder. As per an estimate, at least 1.25 million people in the United Kingdom, at any given time, have an eating disorder. The NHS says that people with an eating disorder generally fall under a 'normal' weight range, and one in every six adults can struggle with an eating disorder. Eating disorders can affect people of any age, gender, race, background, or sexuality.

Tom Quinn, the director of external affairs at eating disorder charity Beat, says that Christmas can be "difficult" for people with any kind of eating disorder. Tom says that during the Christmas period when eating becomes a social occasion, people struggling with eating disorders want to isolate themselves as they may feel ashamed of their illness.




However, Tom noted that if people plan, they can look after themselves during Christmas. He said that people with eating disorders should start with a "practice meal" with their loved and trusted ones and observe their feelings before, during, and after their meal.
Tom added that people should also express when they need encouragement and support while having a meal. This way, their attention can be steered away from food. He said people with eating disorders could also go for a family walk or play games to balance any difficult emotions they face after the meal.

FAQs:

1. Who can be affected by an eating disorder?
   It can affect people of any age, gender, race, background, or sexuality.
2. How many people in the UK have an eating disorder?
   At any given time, at least 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder.