Many of the events surrounding the Christmas season include food. While this isn't an issue for most people, those who struggle with eating disorders can feel especially stressed and even isolated at such events.

"'Ideally, family and friends should be sensitive to the fact that their guest or loved one has an eating disorder,' [Theresa] Fassihi said in a statement. 'Respect that, while the meal may be a joyous occasion for you, it may be stressful to a person with an eating disorder, especially one who has recently completed treatment."

If you know someone is recovering from - or still struggling with - an eating disorder, offer food but don't insist that he or she eat. Also, be sure not to hover or monitor what they do or don't eat.

Teens often deal with stress in unhealthy ways like cutting or using drugs. A good adolescent residential treatment center, like Youth Care, can help teenagers get the help they need.

Labels: holidays, stress, support

The Fourth of July holiday usually means barbeques with friends and family, parades, fireworks, and lots of food. Anytime food and people mix, comments like "I'm going to have to work out extra hard after all this food" are almost inevitable. But rather than give in to those kinds of thoughts about food and body size, choose to make this 4th of July a new kind of Independence Day.

"I reflected on Independence Day, and what personal freedom really means in regards to modern day society and weight. To me, that's fostering a healthy body image by accepting myself and my food choices. This holiday, declare independence from stereotypes and celebrate by freeing your spirit!"

Make a conscious decision not to comment about other people or yourself based on body size or shape. Enjoy your favorite meal without feeling guilty. And if you get especially caught up in the moment, throw or put away your bathroom scale! Read more at AWeightLifted.Blogs.com.

Labels: body_image, guilt, holidays