When body image woes come wrapped in a bow

Editor’s note: Oona Hanson is a writer, educator and parent coach who specializes in helping families navigate diet culture and eating disorders. What I look like right now isn’t good enough’ — and that can go into eating disorders, depression and anxiety,” noted Carolyn Comas, an eating disorder therapist in Los Angeles. “It’s not punishment but something you look forward to because then you do it for the rest of your life.” This might look like inviting children to join in family activities such as nature walks, ice-skating or sledding — without any commentary about burning calories or “earning” dessert, Comas said. “It’s like a little eating disorder brain on your wrist.” Even if your children insist they want smartwatches to communicate or because they’re the cool thing to have, remember that winter holiday gift-giving happens against the backdrop of relentless cultural messages about upcoming New Year’s resets and diet plans. Because I’ve sat across from clients who have never forgotten a parent or a spouse or someone who gave them a fitness or diet-related gift, and they’re still sitting in my office talking about it.” If you or someone you know may be struggling with an eating disorder, the National Alliance for Eating Disorders provides resources and referrals.