Questions to Calm...in the Age of Covid-19

We asked our Wednesday’s Child community whether they had any particular concerns or queries related to, or coinciding with, Coronavirus.

We’ve endeavoured to provide you with some straightforward responses and suggestions.

Please remember, we are not doctors and therefore are never trying to replace any specific medical advice you may need.

Our guidance here is to assist you in dealing with your eating disorder behaviours and thoughts, based on our therapeutic expertise in conjunction with lived experience.

Am I more likely to get sick because of my eating disorder?

Great question. Truth is, you cannot know for sure what your level of immunity to this virus is, unless you’re armed with all sorts of blood test results and physiological screening. What we do know, is that it’s sensible to avoid any potential of falling ill – either succumbing to this virus, or any other significant cold or bug. Right now, we all need to try to keep well in our own homes so far as is possible. Stick to the government rules around social distancing, limit excess use of energy, keep your hands clean, and eat as well as you are able.

Should I still attend my regular GP appointments?

If you’re used to regular weigh-ins and checks with your GP, certainly don’t fail to turn up or simply stop attending, without discussing with your GP. They may decide they would rather you not attend the surgery at this time, but they may want to ensure they stay in contact with you from an accountability point of view.

Regardless, do remember that if you feel unwell or in need of assistance, you are no less worthy of help than anyone.

I’m angry that my therapy appointments have stopped. What should I do instead?

We can understand why that would be unsettling. Therapists will be wanting to limit contact physically, and may also have to limit appointments because of staff sickness at this time.

Do not allow this to disturb your recovery progress. Ask for online support from your therapist, or phone calls.

If the service is unwilling or unable, consider who else you can ask for ‘virtual’ support to keep you on track.

We’re happy to help you with Zoom calls and via our helpline.

How do I stop my eating disorder using food shortages as a reason to shop and eat less?

We anticipate a lot of people might feel tempted to think this way. Do not allow your mind to use the Covid issue to be an excuse for your eating disorder to take over.

Plan ahead. Consider tactics to deal with your anxiety when you arrive at your shop.

Write a list, but have alternatives on that list too.

Use this time to challenge yourself to move slightly further away from your ‘safe foods’.

Ask someone else to carry out shopping for you if it is proving too difficult, or explore online shopping options who can home-deliver and save you the stress.

We can also discuss shopping with you in advance via a call, and can be whatsapp-ready while you navigate the store. Let us know how we can help.

I’m feeling really unsettled by the control over my exercise opportunities. How do I manage this?

Remember that this is for the short term only. Remember too, that we’re ‘all’ on the same restrained regime. And, most importantly REMEMBER THAT RECOVERY IS YOUR GOAL.

Whether during or beyond Coronavirus, you should be wanting to limit your energy expenditure in order to give your body the chance to recover.

Now is a good time to break some of your rituals and regimes.

Find alternative wellbeing distractions instead of the time you would have spent exercising.

Think about journaling, pursuing a craft, carrying out a project at home.

It frightens me to think I might end up alone and isolated for a long period of time. How do I stop this negative mental process becoming worse?

The thought of being alone is indeed upsetting. And yet, even if you may be ‘physically’ alone in your home, you can still maintain contact with friends and family very easily.

Technology allows you to be in constant communication, and you should certainly embrace the chance to do so.

Look at tools like Facetime, Zoom, Houseparty and Whatsapp as your resources for keeping you linked in to the worlds of others.

Ensure your family and friends know your fears and concerns. Tell them that you’d appreciate being able to chat with them regularly.

You can also embrace further online support via our resources, or such things as our craft group.

Above all, follow the government guidelines for staying safe and well – and never feel afraid to reach out for help from medical professionals if you suspect your mental or physical health is deteriorating.

Email us for help on hello@wednesdayschild.co.uk