As an eating disorders psychologist, I often help clients prepare for the holidays by managing diet and weight loss talk, navigating complicated family dynamics, and coping with the sheer abundance of food that seems to dominate every gathering. For many people with eating disorders, the holidays are already a minefield—filled with pressure, comparison, and loss of routine.
But there is another reality that receives far less attention in conversations about eating disorders during the holidays: food insecurity.
This came into sharp focus for me recently when I asked a Medi-cal client what she and her family planned to do for Thanksgiving. She told me they would be going to church—not because they are religious, but because they would receive a free Thanksgiving meal there. Her response stopped me short. It was a reminder that while some people are overwhelmed by excess during the holidays, others are preoccupied with a much more basic question: Will there be enough food at all?
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, you can learn more about various care options here. EDRC provides support groups and maintains a comprehensive directory of specialized treatment providers in the Bay Area. You can also support EDRC’s mission further by making a tax deductible donation.
