As Christmas Approaches: A Gentle Check-In

As we move into Christmas, I want to pause and acknowledge something that often goes unspoken.

For people living with an eating disorder, disordered eating, ARFID, binge eating, or neurodivergent food challenges, this time of year can feel incredibly heavy.

There is more food. More comments. More expectations. Less routine.

And often, a lot more pressure to “just enjoy it.”

If Christmas feels hard, you are not doing recovery wrong. Heightened anxiety, distress around meals, emotional exhaustion, or needing extra support is very common.

For parents and carers, it can be frightening to watch someone struggle and not know the “right” thing to say or do. Please know that your presence, consistency, and willingness to seek support matters more than perfection.

A few gentle tips to help on the day

1) Anchor the day with structure

Keeping breakfast, snacks, or familiar foods can help your nervous system feel safer, even if the rest of the day feels unpredictable.

2) Choose one or two “safe supports

This might be a person you can sit next to, a quiet space you can step into, or a phrase you’ve agreed on if things feel too much.

3) Keep expectations realistic

You don’t have to eat “perfectly,” enjoy every moment, or stay longer than you can cope with. Small steps count.

4) Plan an exit or pause option

Knowing you can step away, go for a short walk, or leave early can reduce anxiety, even if you don’t use it.

💗 For parents and carers:

Your calm presence matters more than the food itself. Gentle encouragement, neutral language, and avoiding commentary on portions or bodies can make a huge difference.

For families supporting someone with an eating disorder, ARFID, or neurodivergent eating challenges — it’s okay if the day doesn’t look like other people’s Christmas. Safety and connection come first.

If things feel overwhelming, this is your reminder:

You don’t have to push through alone. Support is allowed to increase, not pause over Christmas. Reaching out early can make this period safer and more manageable

Whether you’re an individual navigating recovery, or a family trying to support someone you love — help is available, and it’s okay to ask for it.

Christmas doesn’t have to be “fixed.” It just needs care.

If you need support during this time, please reach out to your treating team, a trusted professional, or someone safe in your world.

💗 You matter — especially now.