Struggling Recovery of Eating Disorder Disrupted by COVID-19 Pandemic
In the midst of the pandemic, focusing on healthy, supportive relationships has been crucial for one individual in their battle against an eating disorder. The author, who found solace in the company of loved ones and online support groups, shares their story.
Eating disorders, a complex mental health issue, can manifest in various ways. Refusal to eat, bingeing and purging, and an obsession with "healthy eating" are all common signs. According to the director of services from BEAT, the UK's leading eating disorder charity, cases are on the rise. Calls to BEAT's helpline have increased by 50 percent, and social media contact has risen by 78 percent.
The author's personal life saw a significant change when their fiancé became an overnight baking enthusiast. This shift, however, was not without its challenges. The author's social media feed was once filled with food-related content, including recipes and cooking tips. This constant exposure to food-centric posts exacerbated their eating disorder struggles.
In an effort to combat this, the author took a step towards recovery by joining an online support group on Instagram for people struggling with eating disorders. The founder of this group, Diane, often spoke about the exploitation of self-image fears during the pandemic by pervasive diet culture. She also highlighted the unintentionally harmful fitness memes and challenges that have flooded social media, promoting fatphobia and shaming.
The author's family and friends, aware of the struggles, now schedule regular hangout sessions to keep the author's mind off things and help with their boredom. These sessions have proven to be a valuable source of support, leading to less talk about food and more conversation about coping strategies.
The author's therapist now provides Zoom counseling and encourages the use of journaling as a tool for self-reflection and emotional expression. Recovering from an eating disorder isn't just about eating three balanced meals a day; it's a mental struggle that requires understanding, patience, and support.
The author validates their struggle and tries not to lose themselves in a rabbit hole of blame and anger. They acknowledge that the pandemic initially caused concerns about survival, income, and store availability. However, they have found strength in their resilience and the support of those around them.
Despite unfollowing many accounts promoting diet culture and fitness challenges, the author finds it unsustainable due to work requirements. They have, however, found solace in a group chat with friends who share daily meals and viral TikTok recipes. This has helped them maintain a balance between their personal and professional life while navigating their recovery journey.
The author's story serves as a testament to the power of support and understanding in overcoming eating disorders. It is a reminder that recovery is a journey, and it's okay to ask for help along the way.
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