Managing Your Eating Disorder During COVID-19

The stresses associated with COVID-19 can make it difficult to manage your mental health. This is especially true if you already struggle with a mental health challenge—such as an eating disorder. If you’re finding it hard to control your symptoms right now, read on for suggestions on managing your eating disorder during COVID-19.

Accept Your Experience

Realize that you are dealing with greater stress than usual, and that under these circumstances it’s perfectly normal to struggle with your eating disorder—or with any other mental health condition.

Appreciate Your Body

It’s easy to become frustrated with your body’s cravings and appetites. But remember that your body is incredibly adaptable and resilient—partly because it seeks out high-energy foods during times of stress, and stores reserves you can draw on in times of sickness or scarcity.

Do Your Best

Adjust your expectations and aim to stay nourished in as healthy and realistic a way as possible. Not every meal will be properly balanced, but as long as you’re getting an overall variety of foods and being flexible and forgiving with yourself, you’re doing great.

Remember Your Why

It’s still important to manage your eating disorder, even when it feels discouraging. Remember that this time of uncertainty won’t last forever, so hold on to hope for a better future, and stay motivated to keep doing the best you can in this moment.

Ask for Help

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your support group of family and friends. Staying connected during this time can give you encouragement and motivation. If you’re still struggling, contact our office for a telehealth counseling session. We can offer treatment options to help you make it through this especially challenging period.