Change is hard for anyone, but for people with eating disorders, the transition into spring and summer can be excruciating. As the weather gets warmer and we see signs of spring, we start to get anxious about our weight and how we will look in lighter clothing that exposes more of our bodies. We anticipate upcoming holidays like Easter and Passover, and we often think about these celebrations with anxiety rather than excitement. We sometimes worry about what we will wear and what people will think of us.
It is important to be informed about the tendency to fall into depression as the seasons change. For people with eating disorders who often isolate themselves instead of accepting invitations to social functions, it is easy to spiral downward. All too often we imagine the fun other people having-those who we perceive to be more attractive-and we criticize ourselves for our own unmet aspirations. We often look at the New Year's resolutions or other goals we had set for ourselves earlier in the year and despair about our lives that don't meet up to our often unrealistic expectations. We ruminate about the relationship that didn't materialize, the weight we didn't lose, and the taxes that lie ahead of us. We may compare ourselves to our fantasies of other people's more glamorous lives, and become discouraged.
So how can we start looking toward spring with hopeful anticipation? First of all, be kind and patient with yourself because this can be a challenging transition and transitions of any kind are difficult for most. Many people feel increased anxiety this time of the year; even positive life changes can cause tension. Don't feel ashamed for feeling stressed by what's considered a "happy" or "positive" change. It's normal to feel anxiety during the first few days-even the first few weeks-of increased light. Additionally, many people feel tired because of the lost hour and the challenge to get adjusted to increased daylight. Our bodies don't get used to it immediately.
A helpful strategy is often making a list of things you have enjoyed in the past as the days got longer, even if you're not in touch with the joy now. Remember past positive experiences when you were able to be outdoors-a hike in the country, an outdoor café or concert. Keep in mind that anxiety about increased daylight is often about exposing more of our bodies in the summer months. Counter concerns about body image with a gratitude list. Make a list each day of three things you are grateful for in this season, including your body. Since so much of our anxiety is about our bodies it is important to not take for granted the wonderful ways our bodies are there for us-the legs that enable us to walk in the country; the nose that enables us to smell the flowers, and the ears that help us take in the sound of the waves. Gratitude is a powerful antidote to the perfectionistic worries about our appearance.
While anger turned inward creates depression, anger turned outward can create empowerment. Let yourself feel your healthy anger about the societal norms that expect you to look like a magazine cover. Instead focus on the positives in the season from a strength-based position rather than the need to constantly self-improve. When we are more engaged in life, we tend to be happier and more energetic, and naturally less preoccupied with food and body image. This leaves us free to live our lives with joy.