Dr. Cristina Castagnini discusses strategies for managing Thanksgiving triggers for individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image issues, as well as providing guidance for their loved ones.

   

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Common Thanksgiving stressors for those with eating disorders
  • Strategies for managing anxiety around food and social gatherings
  • Self-care techniques for surviving the holiday
  • Support tips for loved ones

COMMON THANKSGIVING TRIGGERS

  • Unfamiliar foods
  • Comments about dieting, weight, or appearance
  • Family dynamics
  • Eating in front of others
  • Anxiety about clothing and body image

STRATEGIES FOR INDIVIDUALS

Create a Game Plan
  • Identify a "safe person" for support
  • Have an escape plan
  • Set boundaries in advance
  • Prepare coping mechanisms
Mindful Coping Techniques
  • Box breathing exercise
  • Grounding techniques
  • Bringing a safe, familiar dish
  • Taking breaks when needed
Post-Thanksgiving Self-Care
  • Reflect and debrief with a support system
  • Be kind to yourself
  • Return to normal routines
  • Avoid self-judgment

ADVICE FOR LOVED ONES

  • Avoid commenting on appearance or eating
  • Don't discuss diets or calories
  • Respect set boundaries
  • Provide gentle check-ins
  • Focus on activities beyond food

SPECIAL NOTE FOR THOSE ALONE

  • Engage in self-care
  • Seek support if feeling lonely or stressed
  • Explore available resources

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THE EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 00:59 Thanksgiving Anxiety and Eating Disorders
  • 01:39 Common Thanksgiving Stressors
  • 08:53 Strategies for Navigating Thanksgiving
  • 19:54 Support for Loved Ones
  • 22:10 Acknowledging Loneliness During the Holidays
  • 23:49 Conclusion and Resources

CALL TO ACTION

For Listeners Struggling with Eating Disorders:

You are not alone this holiday season!  

Take the First Step  

Get Support    
  • Reach out to a trusted therapist or counselor
  • Join a support group
  • Use the coping strategies discussed in this episode
  Share and Spread Awareness  
  • Rate and subscribe to the Behind the Bite podcast
  • Share this episode with someone who might need it
  • Help break the stigma around eating disorders
For Loved Ones:
  • Learn, Listen, and Support
Educate Yourself
  • Listen carefully to the guidance in this episode
  • Learn how to provide compassionate support
  • Avoid triggering language and behavior
Be a Safe Person
  • Offer gentle, non-judgmental support
  • Create a safe environment for your loved one
  • Check-in periodically and show you care
Together, We Can Create Healing and Understanding

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!

Thank you for tuning in to Behind the Bite! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others who might benefit. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review

Until next time, remember, we're here to break down barriers, challenge stigma, and support each other on the path to a better life.

Part of the Los Angeles Tribune Podcast Network, produced by the Tweaky Tales.

**Disclaimer:**

This podcast is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. It is given with the understanding that neither the host, the publisher, nor the guests are rendering legal, clinical, or other professional information. If you want or need a professional, you should find one to work with who can address your individual needs and situation.