Just seen this on the news and am posting in case it might be helpful for anyone.
The NHS and eating disorder charity Beat have published new guidance on how to support people with eating disorders and their families at Christmas:
https://www.beateatingdisorders.org....ders-christmas
Copied from the website:
The joint advice is based on first-hand experience from clinicians, patients and parents. It outlines tips that can ease the pressure for those with an eating disorder. Some of the suggested techniques include:
- serve food as a buffet rather than as sit-down meals
- minimise the social expectations of people with eating disorders over the festive season
- treat meals on and around Christmas Day as routinely as possible
- plan well ahead and think about how food features in your days
- once dinner is over, shift the focus on to other activities like playing games or watching a family film
- make loved ones aware to avoid questions about weight or appetite
From the 24 December to 1 January, Beat’s Helplines will be open every day from 4pm-8pm. Anyone in need of support can get in contact via phone, email, anonymous one-to-one webchat or social media messaging.
The Beat Helpline can be reached on 0808 801 0677, or there is a dedicated Youthline for under-18s on 0808 801 0711. The online support groups and one-to-one webchat can be accessed on beateatingdisorders.org.uk
