Pursuing Eating Disorder Recovery in the Midst of a Pandemic
As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to impact communities around the globe, the fear and uncertainty surrounding this illness raises particular concern for individuals currently in treatment for an eating disorder. In the midst of a worldwide pandemic where we are not only encouraged but urged to isolate ourselves from others, the thought of pursuing eating disorder recovery without direct treatment programming might seem impractical. However, during times of crisis, it is more important than ever to continue on the path to recovery and stick to a treatment plan. Fortunately, there are many alternatives to in-person treatment services that will enhance your recovery experience and can be implemented from home.
by: Megan Madsen
The coronavirus (COVID-19) has affected a number of eating disorder treatment centers around the world — many turning to digital and virtual resources to provide accessible services for individuals in treatment for eating disorders. In the face of an international health crisis or other circumstance that necessitates self-quarantine, now is not the time to justify complacency in your eating disorder recovery.
The most effective way to benefit your physical and mental health is to continue working toward your treatment goals despite the current outbreak. Amid the turmoil that often precedes a widespread crisis, these stressful conditions may compel individuals with a history of disordered eating to revert back to old habits and behaviors as coping mechanisms or a means of comfort. Now more than ever, recovery should be your top priority.
Do Not Panic
As the coronavirus outbreak progresses, there is mass hysteria and misinformation circulating through every news outlet and social media platform. It is important to educate yourself on the developing situation and take appropriate precautions without contributing to the global panic. Individuals currently in treatment for an eating disorder may feel apprehensive about continuing treatment digitally or potentially having to pause treatment altogether. Be patient and practice compassion towards yourself if you begin to experience an increase in disordered thoughts and urges. Seeking control and comfort amongst all of the chaos and disarray is normal. Now more than ever is the time to rely on your treatment team and your support systems for help and reassurance.
While face-to-face treatment may be temporarily discontinued in your area, make a deliberate effort to continue your programming remotely if your treatment center offers virtual services. Reach out to your team for updated schedules and online resources.
Make A Coping Plan
The most reliable way to stay on track with your eating disorder recovery and avoid a potential relapse is to create a coping plan with your treatment team. A coping plan is a strategy or program that will help you approach triggers and stressors with a selection of healthy coping mechanisms. Creating a coping plan can help you feel more prepared and in control of potentially triggering situations that you may encounter throughout quarantine. Your coping plan should include a list of potential triggers (i.e. people, situations, fear foods, etc.), healthy coping strategies for handling these triggers, a list of support people that you could reach out to at any time, and some empowering coping statements that you could tell yourself in a stressful or triggering moment. Refer to your coping plan any time you feel out of control.
Keep In Contact With Your Treatment Team
Despite not being able to meet with your treatment team in person, it is important to remain in contact with them just as you would in your regular treatment programming. Be diligent in keeping your online appointments. You may be tempted to postpone or cancel your groups and meetings given the current circumstances, but it is essential to keep in touch with your team during times of increased stress. They will be able to support and guide you through any challenges that you may encounter.
If you suspect that you may have an eating disorder and are not currently receiving treatment, do not let the health crisis deter you from finding a specialized eating disorder treatment team. At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, we recognize during this time that mental health services are needed more than ever, and our goal is to continue to provide these services to our clients without interruption. Currently, and in a further effort to support our clients during a time of increased anxiety and potential isolation, we are offering our entire range of programs and services virtually including our Day Treatment Program, Intensive Outpatient Program, emotional eating group, body image group, men’s group, RO-DBT class, and individual sessions virtually. As always, the health and safety of our clients is our top priority.
This post was written by BALANCE Marketing Assistant, Megan Madsen.
Megan is currently working toward receiving her B.S. in Psychology. She is a Certified Nursing Assistant with a passion for eating disorder research and education. Megan has worked as a CNA on several units in a hospital setting and as a Psych Tech at an eating disorder treatment center. It was there that she discovered her passion for helping those afflicted with eating disorders and where her desire for educating patients and the community on eating disorders and mental illnesses began. In the future, she hopes to work as a Clinical Psychologist with a focus on eating disorder treatment.