Vacations in recovery are hard.
You’re away from home for an extended period of time which limits your access to your usual foods and often alters your routine. Rather than being able to eat on your timetable or eat some foods that bring you comfort, quite often you are limited to what your family agrees to eat for any given meal. Plus, you often eat out quite a bit more than normal which can be triggering in and of itself.
There’s just a general feeling of a lack of control. Like the raft you had crafted to hold you afloat in the chaos of normal life was ripped out from underneath you and now you are just drifting in the waves.
And of course, all disorders are slightly different- presenting differently, having different causes - but I feel like a lot of those I have talked to rely on routine to survive the day and the clutter in our brains, so the lack of stability can be shocking and painful. It takes time for us to adjust and we will need patience and LOTS of support to get through the week.
I am not sure about you, but as I have headed out on another vacation, I I have searched for and tried new techniques and tricks to try and help me cope better. While not foolproof, I figured I would share a few that have helped me even this past week as I chilled in South Carolina!
1. If you are able, pack some safe foods from home or pick some up at the store when you reach your destination.
With all the challenge foods you encounter during the one-week time period things can begin to feel very overwhelming very quickly. Having even one or two foods that don’t send ED into a tizzy can be very comforting to have around when you need some extra calories or just can’t handle one of the meals.
I have used this on nearly every trip I have been on since I was diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa. It has allowed me to challenge myself when I feel strong enough to handle ED, but has also allowed me to take a break from the noise and relax my nerves. This has been super helpful in allowing me enjoy vacation while also continuing in my recovery by challenging ED with both big and small battles.
2. Bring things that have helped you cope with meals in the past!
For me play dough and card games have been ideal in distracting me from the noise following a challenging meal. On vacation the positive is the distraction of having family around and constant conversation, however, if it gets too bad you also have some tried and true methods of distraction to fall back on.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask your family for help!
Now this one can be difficult because on vacation they are out of their element for helping you handle ED as well. However, family is a great resource for helping you piece together comforting meals, challenge meals, and finding balance between the two. They are also a great way to hold yourself accountable for getting in the appropriate amount of food based on the activities of the day.
4. If all else fails take it up!
God has a great way of bringing peace into situations where you did not think peace was able to appear and can easily defeat ED in all circumstances. So, if nothing else works pray. Ask God to be with you as you go throughout your day, as you face challenging outfits and scary foods, and He will. It may not get any easier, but He will give you the strength to accomplish everything you need and enjoy the time you get to spend with your family making memories.
You got this!
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