Top tips for managing summer in recovery

Summer can be a time to relax and take a break from the normal routines of life. And that’s great, but if you’re recovering from an eating disorder it can also bring some challenges.

So this week, Beat supporters and best pals Sally and Georgia share their tips for managing summer in recovery...

• Create your own summer routine – if you’re taking a break from school/uni/work etc, it can be a bit overwhelming suddenly having lots of free time! Coming up with your own summer routine can really help give your days some structure, even if it’s super simple (for example, starting the day with some journalling, or going for a lunch time walk)
• Stay comfy in the heat - Hotter weather can mean fewer layers of clothing, which can bring its own set of anxieties if you’re in recovery, so it’s important to be extra kind to yourself –make sure you’re wearing comfy clothes, and think about what might help you feel more comfortable (we like to write affirmations on the mirror!)

• Make plans to see your support network – it can be overwhelming having lots of free time on your own, so make sure to organise phone calls/walks etc with friends and family and people who you know make you feel good
• Take yourself on a solo date – Having said that, who says being on your own has to be lonely! Summer can be the perfect time to try out some solo activities – why not try out going to a gallery, the cinema, out for coffee etc
• Get prepped for holidays - If you’re going somewhere new, it can help to research the dining culture beforehand so you don’t get caught out while you’re there, and know a bit more about what to expect.
• Pay attention to your sleeping pattern - More sunlight means a shift in routine, and if we don’t get enough sleep our mental health can seriously suffer. Setting yourself a rough bedtime can be a great way of making sure we’re getting our beauty sleep!

• Remember that a good Instagram post does not a good time make - social media is infamously fickle, and just because it looks like someone is having a better time than you doesn’t mean it’s true. Holidays from work or school can also mean more time to doom scroll, and we do not need that! We know it can be hard, but do try to take some time away from your phone.
• Nervous about BBQs and Summer parties? Dip your toe in with a buffet or picnic - The act of sharing food and not necessarily having a set plate has been known to help a lot of people with eating disorders overcome the anxiety of eating in front of others as it takes some of the focus off the food and puts more on the community.

Overall, we both love this time of the year and even though it can throw up its own challenges, we’ve found following these tips can really help to fully relax and enjoy it (even if the British weather doesn’t always decide to co-operate!)

-Contributed by Sally and Georgia

If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in this story, or are concerned for yourself or a loved one, you can find support and guidance on the help pages of our website.