Tips for Going Back to College in Eating Disorder Recovery

Navigating the back-to-school period can be both exciting and challenging for students, but for those in eating disorder recovery, it can bring about additional stress and obstacles. The transition into back -to-school routines can disrupt established mealtimes, trigger anxieties, and potentially hinder progress in recovery. In this blog post, I will delve into helpful tips tailored for individuals in eating disorder recovery to assist in managing the back-to-school period while prioritizing their health and well-being.

1. Strategically Plan Mealtimes

One of the key aspects of maintaining recovery during the school year is planning mealtimes that align with your class schedule. Sometimes class schedules can impact "typical mealtimes". Therefore, it is important to prioritize consistency in your eating habits by setting designated mealtimes and packing nourishing snacks to have on hand throughout the day. By proactively organizing your meals, you can ensure you're meeting your nutritional needs even amidst a busy school schedule.

2. Make Meals a Priority

Along with the chaos of academic responsibilities, it's essential to view meals as non-negotiable appointments with yourself. Treat each meal as an opportunity to nourish your body and mind and avoid skipping meals or restricting your intake due to time constraints (i.e classes, socializing, homework). Yes, your academics and social relationships are of great importance - also remember, prioritizing your well-being through balanced nutrition is crucial for your overall health and academic success.

3. Collaborate with Your Treatment Team

During the back-to-school period, it is crucial to establish a strong line of communication with your treatment team. This team may consist of various healthcare professionals such as doctors, therapists, psychiatrists, and nutritionists who are dedicated to supporting your well-being and recovery. By actively engaging with them, you can ensure that your physical, mental, and emotional needs are being met as you transition back to school. Creating a comprehensive plan with your treatment team allows you to anticipate and address any potential challenges that may arise during the school year. Whether it's managing stress, coping with academic pressure, or dealing with social interactions, having a structured plan in place can provide you with a sense of security and empowerment. Lastly, it is important to establish a collaborative relationship between your treatment team at home (if applicable) and the treatment providers at school. These providers at school can include the college counseling center and the college health center. By working together with your treatment team, you can navigate the challenges of school, knowing that you have a dedicated support system behind you every step of the way.

4. Lean on Loved Ones and Friends for Support

Reaching out to your loved ones, friends, and trusted individuals can provide invaluable emotional support during this transitional phase. Share your struggles and victories with them and allow them to be a source of encouragement and understanding. Building a strong support network can help you feel less isolated and more motivated in your recovery efforts.

5. Utilize Adaptive Coping Skills

Incorporating adaptive coping skills into your daily routine can help you navigate challenging situations and emotions without resorting to harmful behaviors. Whether it's mindfulness exercises, journaling, or engaging in creative outlets, find coping mechanisms that resonate with you and incorporate them into your self-care regimen. For me, I took up crocheting in college and this has since been an amazing tool for me ever since.

6. Stay Present with Techniques for Grounding

Amidst the hustle and bustle of school life and managing recovery, it's important to stay grounded and present in the moment. Practice grounding techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or grounding exercises to anchor yourself during moments of stress or anxiety. By staying connected to the present, you can better cope with triggers and uncertainties. My particular favorite grounding technique is the 5-4-3-2-1 (5 things you can see, 4 things you can feel, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, 1 thing you can taste). This technique helps with excessive worry or feelings of anxiousness and bring you back to the present moment.

7. Recognize Self-Sabotage and Warning Signs

Be vigilant in identifying signs of self-sabotage and warning signals that may jeopardize your recovery progress. Monitor your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors for any red flags that indicate a potential relapse or setback. By recognizing these signs early on, you can proactively address them and seek additional support with your treatment team if needed.

8. Set Boundaries

Establishing clear and healthy boundaries in your academic and social life is essential for safeguarding your well-being. Learn to say no to situations or commitments that may compromise your recovery journey and prioritize activities that align with your values and goals. By setting boundaries, you are protecting your mental and physical health while fostering a sense of agency and self-respect.

In conclusion, navigating the back-to-school period in eating disorder recovery requires intention and self-compassion. By implementing these tips and strategies, you allow yourself to flourish academically and nutritionally while prioritizing your health and recovery journey. Remember, you are deserving of support, understanding, and positive well-being as you embark on this new chapter of your life.

If you are interested in meeting with an eating disorder therapist contact Danielle for a 15 minute phone consultation via email at info@holdingspacemhc.com or fill out a contact form