Post the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve all adapted to a different form of normalcy. But now more than ever, the allure of warm summer days at the pool or beach adventures is irresistible. However, rejoining such settings may take a bit more time for those adjusting to home life again. As such, having a plan in place before returning home can help make your summer as stress-free as possible. Holly Willis writes in her blog post, “The key to maintaining eating disorder recovery over summer break is anticipating those challenges and preparing to respond to them in a recovery-sustaining way.”

Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth transition and an enjoyable summer.

Create a Summer Plan for Yourself and Your ED Recovery  

Upon returning home from college, planning your summer as best as possible is crucial. Wake up and go to sleep at intentional times, schedule meals throughout the day, and make plans with family and friends. Staying connected with your recovery team and joining a virtual support group can significantly benefit your recovery during the summer. In her blog post, Jennifer Rollin stressed the importance of consistency with therapy and dietitian appointments. While plans may change, staying on course with your recovery goals provides invaluable support. 

Choose Comfortable Clothing to Promote Summer Recovery 

Summer does not obligate you to wear anything that makes you uncomfortable. An article for The Emily Program recommends prioritizing physical comfort in your attire. Embracing self-acceptance while wearing clothes that boost your confidence is crucial for summer recovery. Need help with how to dress comfortably for recovery? Consider checking out BALANCE’s webinar, Dress for Recovery!