Written by: Lauren Martin
While holidays from various traditions are celebrated throughout the year, a new holiday season is quickly approaching for many of us. The holiday season is a time to get together and celebrate with friends and family, and these celebrations often involve sharing meals together. Because of the emphasis placed on food and eating during this time of the year, individuals might decide to make comments about their own body and eating habits. It is also common for individuals to make comments about your body, including weight and size, especially if it has been some time since they have seen you.
Comments or conversations that revolve around bodies and eating behaviors, especially your own, can be upsetting for those struggling with their body image. This type of body talk can lead to increased feelings of fear and anxiety about one’s body, and a recurrence of disordered eating behaviors in many people. To help avoid issues such as these from occurring, here are some ways to respond to body comments during this holiday season:
Establish Boundaries in Advance
Communicate your boundaries regarding others’ comments about your body before entering a situation where it might come up. You can decide to tell others that it is not okay to make comments about your body. You can also share how those comments make you feel if you would like. Doing this will help prevent any unwanted subjects from becoming the topic of conversation and help to build your support system!
Practice Coping Strategies
Prepare for how you will cope in the moment by practicing your strategies ahead of time. For example, this could look like repeating a phrase to yourself, such as an expression of gratitude for your body. You can also write down any go-to responses and keep them handy so they are ready to be used. Be sure to modify this suggestion to fit your own needs!
Redirect the Conversation
Be ready to change the subject! Brainstorm alternate subjects of conversation to discuss if someone begins making comments about your body (or their own). This way, you can discuss topics that are more meaningful and fulfilling to everyone who is present. For example, if someone makes a comment about how much or little you are eating, you can say, “I’m not interested in discussing that. I’d like to hear more about how your school year is going,” or “I’d prefer to not receive comments regarding how much I am eating. Anyway, are you planning on going on any trips in the New Year?”
Walk Away
If the conversation becomes too upsetting, remove yourself from the situation by walking away. Find a supportive person or pet to spend time with, take a walk, or find another activity that brings you joy instead!
The holiday season is a time for connecting with loved ones, sharing traditions, and creating enjoyable memories. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be a stressful and lonely time for those struggling with their body image. Rather than judging yourself or others, you can choose to be curious about the situation or your individual needs, and seek to process this in a healthy and safe environment. Counseling can help you work through your feelings about body image, and utilizing these strategies can help you have a more peaceful and happier holiday season!
Lauren Martin is a Clinical Intern accepting new clients at Naperville Wellness and Counseling. If you are interested in scheduling for counseling or would like more information, please contact Lauren at lmartin@napervillewellnessandcounseling.com, reach her by phone at 630-614-1164 x 8, or visit our website at napervillewellnessandcounseling.com. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram @napervillewellnessandcounseling for mental health awareness, trends, and tips.
If you are in an emergency or need immediate mental health assistance, call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room. The National Suicide and Crisis Hotline is 9-8-8.
References: Mona, B. (2022, November 4). How to Celebrate Holidays Through Disordered Eating Recovery. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/gift-guide-holiday-celebrations-through-disordered-eating-recovery#How-to-cope-with-an-ED-during-the-holidays
