The Impact of COVID-19 and Social Isolation on Eating Disorders
As the COVID-19 pandemic leaves many of us isolated in quarantine, being alone in strict mandates along with the anxiety of the virus can be especially hard and triggering for those with eating disorders. Though navigating this new normal and finding new ways to connect can be overwhelming, there are many ways to maintain community support as well as develop new strategies to cope throughout eating disorder recovery.
By: Anna Capetola
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted daily living for people around the world. In response to the untamed spread of the virus, we have been mandated and then strongly encouraged to stay-at-home and isolate ourselves from others. We have been learning new information about COVID-19 since the first case was discovered in the United States on January 20, 2020. By now, we know that minimizing physical contact and social distancing decreases the risk of spreading and contracting the virus. What we have not heard a lot about is how social isolation has been impacting individuals, especially those with current or emerging eating disorders.
The Journal of Eating Disorders speaks to this matter and draws attention to how social isolation increases the rates of anxiety, sadness, anger, and loneliness (Touyz, Lacey, and Hay, 2020). More than one-third of the population has experienced symptoms of anxiety and depression as a result of social isolation, both of which tend to co-occur in eating disorders (Touyz, Lacey, and Hay, 2020). The time spent alone with one’s thoughts can result in hours of ruminating on food and body image. Additionally, accepting those desirable foods that may be less accessible and less varied can be quite challenging to cope with. The inconsistent access to food could also provoke the need to stock up and store large amounts of food in the home, which can be triggering.
We often try to gain a sense of control in our lives during uncertain times like this. For someone with a current or emerging eating disorder, the desire to feel a sense of control while in isolation may manifest through controlling what to eat or not to eat. Social isolation creates an opportunity to hide eating disordered thoughts and behaviors from the outer world, which is problematic since eating disorders thrive in secrecy and isolation. It is important to acknowledge this and highlight that social distancing doesn’t have to mean social isolation.
There are several ways to keep our physical distance from others while maintaining emotional connections. You can communicate with loved ones, friends, family members, and coworkers by calling, texting, Facetiming, direct messaging, and more. If it helps to create structure and boundaries, you can set specific times and days when you want to contact different people. Don’t be afraid to get creative with it! You can start virtual art-making groups, game nights, book clubs, karaoke, and dance parties.
It could also be helpful to schedule virtual meals for support and to hold yourself accountable. If you have a dietitian, be sure to follow the meal plan you’ve discussed. Generally, when we’re faced with high levels of stress and pressure, our hunger and fullness cues may subside. Having a plan to follow will help you stay the course and regularly nourish your body.
If you’re thinking about getting connected with an eating disorder therapist and registered dietitian, telehealth services make it easy to connect with someone virtually. Remember that your feelings are valid, your voice deserves to be heard, and recovery is still possible during quarantine!
At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center, we understand the importance of structured group support in a time of social isolation and have adapted to the current COVID-19 crisis by offering fully online, virtual programming and services. We offer a variety of virtual programs, groups, and individual services personalized to meet each client’s needs. Our compassionate, highly skilled team of clinicians is trained in diagnosing and treating the spectrum of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating, and other disordered eating behaviors and body image issues.
Our admissions team would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our virtual programs and services. Book a free consultation call with our admissions team below or read more about our philosophy here.
This post was written by BALANCE Social Work Intern, Anna Capetola.
Anna is a second-year graduate student at New York University pursuing her Master’s in Social Work. She completed her undergraduate education at Quinnipiac University, majoring in psychology and minoring in sociology. She previously worked for Vibrant Emotional Health, formerly known as The Mental Health Association of NYC, where she conducted assessments, provided short-term counseling, and offered crisis intervention services to individuals who were struggling with an array of mental health and substance use concerns. Anna also has experience working with the Traumatic Brain Injury population, as well as individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and Autism Spectrum Disorder. She is devoted to learning about the mind-body connection, health, and overall wellness. She is deeply passionate about eating disorder awareness and recovery. Anna believes everyone has the right to feel supported, accepted, understood, valued, and cared for.
Reference
Touyz, S., Lacey, H. & Hay, P. Eating disorders in the time of COVID-19. J Eat Disord 8, 19 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40337-020-00295-3