Wow. It’s been quite the whirlwind with COVID-19 already, hasn’t it?! I am sending you so much warmth and compassion during these hard, confusing, scary times.
A gentle reminder that your recovery is still important. Read on to hear my top tips for staying rooted in recovery while we ride out this storm.
Pursuing Recovery During a Pandemic 101:
Stock up. There might be different choices than you’re used to, but the important thing is to stock up on a variety of shelf-stable carbs, fats, and proteins. And don’t forget the fun and/or comfort foods! You can freeze many foods, including cooked carbs like bread and tortillas, uncooked pastas like tortellini, raw and cooked meats, and soups. If you already experience food insecurity or scarcity, reach out to local food banks to ask about their current offerings. Some of them might be limited, but still open. Here’s a guideline for grocery shopping >>
Lean on your treatment team for support. We are all there with you in this struggle. You’ve likely switched to virtual sessions with team members, and it’s important to keep these appointments now more than ever. Talk about what you’re experiencing with food and isolation. We want to hear how this is affecting you so that we can try and help support you the best we can.
Lean on your support network. FaceTime and Skype were created for a reason! There are still ways to stay connected to other humans without seeing them face to face. Public spaces where you can safely keep a distance of 6 feet from other people are also considered safe, meaning taking your doggo for a walk in the park is a perfectly good way to get out of the house (as long as movement doesn’t feel tied to your ED).
Stay informed. Know the symptoms of COVID-19 and social distance as best you can to keep everyone safe. Many insurance companies, water and electricity, and housing companies are waiving fees associated with telehealth and delayed bill paying. Many food pantries are still functional, although not at full capacity.
Feel those feels! Journal. Cry. Call someone. Play a game. Cuddle your pet. Engage in a hobby. Start a new project. Read a book. Take a nap. Do what you need to do to cope, without engaging in your eating disorder behaviors.
Remember that this too shall pass. Nothing lasts forever, friend. This is a temporary piece of our lives… that we are all in together. You aren’t the only one sitting in these feelings. We will get through this by staying connected and riding out the storm together.
Other resources:
Free virtual support groups through The Eating Disorder Foundation
Guidelines on binding during this time
Grocery delivery apps: Instacart, Walmart Grocery, Shipt, Whole Foods on Amazon Prime
The Food Resource Hotline to find a food pantry near you (Colorado).
If you're willing and able, you might consider reaching out to an elderly or at-risk neighbor to bring them food/supplies, and volunteering for a food bank. They are desperately short on volunteers and could use your help getting food to those who need it. Call to find your local food pantry.
Guided meditation with Lizzo
Free virtual yoga with Amber Karnes (BOPO)
Free Crisis Hotline
I am sending all of you a big ‘ol virtual hug.
Send me an email or find me on social media to stay in touch. Want to learn more about what it’s like to work with a dietitian who specializes in eating disorders? Schedule your free discovery call to chat about nutrition therapy!