Getting through the holiday season without relapse is, in my opinion, easier than the ‘post-holiday blues’.
It is vital to be aware of the dip in mood, boredom, isolation, loneliness, disappointment and many other emotions that will come up during the celebrations but will also be very prevalent afterwards.
I have worked for over 15 years with addictions and eating disorders and it is always after an event that a person is more vulnerable to relapse and I have seen it.
It is the human condition to enjoy the anticipation of the event more than the event itself and then feel low when it is all over.
Having an eating disorder just adds another serious emotional aspect to dealing with this aspect of life. After all, it is part of life. Events will come and go but recovery doesn’t have to. It must be the one constant that continues during the anticipation phase, through the event itself and after the event is over.
It is this awareness that will help with recovery. It is this awareness that must be acted upon.
You can be one step ahead and prepare for the ‘post-holiday blues’ – have a plan for after the event. Contact others in recovery, participate in mutual-help groups, continue all your basic disciplines that you know work for you in your recovery.
Most important of all be kind to your self and treat yourself with respect and compassion.
After all that is what this holiday season is all about.
Wishing you Peace and Serenity.
