Now that Daylight Savings has passed, we are officially ‘springing ahead’ to spring. While many people look forward to wearing jean jackets and flowy dresses, people with body image issues may be hesitant to ditch their winter jackets and gloves. Those who suffer with eating disorders (or struggle with body image) may be thinking less about the increased light, and more about their wardrobes and bodies.
A common side effect of having an eating disorder is poor body image, and some people will experience body dysmorphia (hyperfocusing on the “flaws” of one’s own body, and often seeing a different image of one’s body than others see). With the inevitable changing of the seasons, thoughts about wearing less clothing and showing more skin can increase the prevalence of anxiety and depression.
If you’re struggling with thoughts of warmer weather, consider these tips for the seasonal adjustment:
DO NOT
- DO NOT Compare your body to anyone else’s body, or “your old body”… Your body is your own, and it naturally changes with time. Comparisons generally lead to negative thoughts!
- DO NOT spend too much time looking in the mirror… The more time you look at yourself, the more likely you are to find details that bother you. Limit your time in front of the mirror to the essentials, like brushing your teeth, hair, and other basic needs. Staring at your body will not change your body!
- DO NOT implement food rules and weight loss goals… This can lead to feelings of failure and self-deprecation. Ie: if your goal is to “not have any chocolate this week,” how will you feel if you have a piece of chocolate?
- DO NOT neglect your activities of daily living… Go to your appointments, talk to your support systems, engage in self-care, take mindfulness breaks, or seek the help of a counselor.
DO
- DO wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable.
- DO talk about things other than dieting… There is so much more in the world to talk about that does not have to do with food and weight.
- DO make plans that do not include food… For example, you could go to a museum, a parks, or a show. Naturally, in the warmer weather, there are ample options of outside activities. If going to a restaurant is triggering and anxiety-producing, know your (temporary) limits; this too shall pass.
- DO the opposite… If you feel like avoiding a beach trip with your friends, go! If you feel like skipping dinner, have dinner! It can be challenging to push through the initial anxiety, but the end result will give you confidence that you are capable of engaging in your life, even when you have thoughts telling you otherwise.
- DO reflect on your personal growth since last spring… and, disregard the number on the scale. What have you accomplished in the past year that did NOT have to do with your weight and shape?