Navigating eating disorders at Easter: Bringing hope into the holidays

For many, Easter is a time of reflection, celebration and togetherness. For those experiencing or supporting someone with an eating disorder, it can also bring heightened stress. Traditions that centre around food, disrupted routines and increased social gatherings may feel overwhelming during a time that’s meant to be joyful. 

Whether you are on your own journey of experiencing an eating disorder, supporting a loved one, or simply seeking a calmer, more compassionate holiday experience this year, here are some gentle strategies to help you navigate this season with care.

1.      Put Self-Care First 
Looking after your own wellbeing is vital. It can be easy to focus entirely on others during the holidays, especially if you’re in a caring role but caring for ourselves increases our capacity to care for others. Whether it’s making time for a walk, listening to music that lifts your spirits, or having a quiet moment to yourself, self-care helps to replenish your energy and model kindness and self-compassion for others.

2.      Plan Ahead
Preparing for family meals or social gatherings ahead of time can help reduce anxiety. If it’s supportive, talk with your treatment team or loved ones about what foods may be served, and discuss strategies to navigate mealtimes. Sticking to a familiar meal structure can also help create a sense of comfort and calm.

3.      Shift the Focus
While food may be a key part of Easter for many families, try to centre your celebration around what brings you and your loved one’s deeper meaning. This could include connection, spirituality, rest, or simply shared experiences. Finding joy in non-food traditions like gift-giving, art, music or time outdoors can help to reframe the day.

4.      Set Boundaries Around Conversations
Topics like weight, food, dieting or exercise can be triggering. These topics often come up in casual conversation and can be quite difficult to avoid. If you feel safe doing so, let others know in advance that these subjects are off-limits. A gentle group message can go a long way in setting the tone. If this doesn’t feel safe for you, you could ask a trusted friend or family member to advocate on your behalf. You might also want to guide conversations toward topics that feel safe and inclusive for everyone.

5.      Prepare for Tricky Moments
Even with boundaries in place, difficult comments can still happen. Planning how to respond or having someone close who can help redirect the conversation can provide a sense of safety. A simple strategy, like having a neutral question ready to change the subject, can help protect your peace in the moment.

6.      Create Comfort After Meals
Post-meal periods can be particularly challenging. Planning calming and comforting activities like watching a movie, playing a game, or going for a gentle walk can help shift the focus away from food and onto connection.

7.      The Chocolate Question
For some, the tradition of giving Easter eggs may raise uncertainty. If giving chocolate is part of your usual family celebration, you don’t necessarily need to avoid it, but open communication can help. Letting your loved one know ahead of time what to expect, and reminding them there’s no pressure, can reduce anxiety.

8.      Non-Food Alternatives
If chocolate feels too overwhelming, consider thoughtful non-food gifts instead. Art supplies, books, a soft blanket, or other comfort items can offer joy and be tailored to your loved one’s interests. The goal is to make the celebration feel meaningful without adding stress.

9.      Make Space for Safety
Having a quiet space or a “safe person” to retreat to during events can make a big difference. If you’re supporting someone with an eating disorder, help create an environment where stepping away is respected and supported. Don’t forget, you can set up a safe space for yourself too!

10. Hold Onto Hope
Easter is, at its heart, a time of renewal and hope. Recovery is not linear and every step forward, regardless of how big or small, counts! This easter, whether you’re simply showing up, reaching out, or gently holding space for yourself or others, you are doing something powerful. 

You are not alone in this journey and support is always available. 

Accessing support during the Easter period:

Butterfly National Helpline - Call 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673), use webchat or email.  (Butterfly’s Helpline ED HOPE is closed on National Public Holidays) 

In a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or in an emergency, call 000.

To learn more about helplines and support services, visit our Get Help page.