See why working on one’s mental health over the summer while there is a break can provide a stronger foundation for the school year ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Summer can increase eating disorder triggers due to routine changes, body image pressure, and social events
• Recovery support during summer is just as important as any other time of year
• Structure, support, and professional care can help maintain progress
• Virtual and in-person treatment options provide flexibility during travel or schedule changes
• You don’t have to wait until after summer to seek help

Summer can be triggering for those who have disordered eating

As the temperature rises in the summer, so can anxiety for those with an eating disorder.

Between holiday cookouts and bathing suits to perfectly curated images of how others are spending their summer flooding your social media, this time of year can be triggering for those struggling with body image and eating concerns.

Typically, there is an increase in high school and college students seeking eating disorder treatment during the early summer months, and this can be a result of several factors. The transition out of the school routine can be stressful, especially if it involves moving back home or to a new environment. The expectations and comparisons that come with the summer months also present challenges, such as feeling insecure about how we look and spend our time. The idea of adding treatment during the summer season can feel daunting.

However, returning to school well on the path to recovery can make all the difference in an individual’s academic and social life. Working on someone’s mental health over the summer while there is a break in rigorous studies, sports, and social calendars can provide a stronger foundation for the school year ahead.

Common Summer Triggers for Eating Disorders

• Swimwear and body exposure
• Comments about appearance or weight
• BBQs, vacations, and unstructured eating
• Heat affecting appetite
• Fitness/diet culture messaging
• Comparison on social media

Navigating Summer Body Image Pressure

Summer often brings increased pressure around appearance, sometimes referred to as the idea of a “summer body.” Clothing changes such as shorts, tank tops, and swimsuits can make people feel more exposed and self-conscious.

Social comparison can also intensify during this time. Seeing curated images online or hearing conversations about weight and appearance can increase feelings of discomfort or inadequacy.

It is important to recognize that these reactions are common. Feeling uncomfortable in your body does not mean something is wrong with you.

Shifting toward a body neutrality approach can help. Instead of focusing on loving how your body looks, body neutrality emphasizes respecting your body for what it does and allowing it to exist without constant judgment.

Reducing exposure to triggering content and practicing self-compassion can also help ease body image pressure during the summer months.

Possible eating disorder signs parents should be on the lookout for

Whether you or your child have struggled with an eating disorder for years or have recently noticed problematic thoughts and behaviors creeping in, summer can be a preferable time to seek support.

Signs You May Need Additional Support This Summer

• Increased anxiety around food, body image, or social events
• Avoiding activities like swimming, eating out, or travel
• Changes in eating patterns or routines
• Feeling overwhelmed, out of control, or isolated
• Increased focus on weight, shape, or exercise

For parents who think their high school or college student may be struggling with an eating disorder, here are some signs to look out for:

• Constant or repetitive dieting
• Excessive exercise patterns
• Hiding, hoarding or stealing food
• Developing rituals surrounding food and mealtimes like excessive chewing or eating in secret
• Obsession with body weight and shape
• Withdrawing from family, friends or other social activities
• Sudden or rapid weight loss, frequent fluctuations in weight
• Evidence of vomiting or laxative use
• Depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, moodiness and irritability

If you have noticed changes in yourself or your child, it may be the right time to ask for help.

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Reasons to seek treatment during the summer for an eating disorder

The flexibility of summer break can mean less stress around scheduling and time commitments, which is why we typically see an increase in information requests about treatment in May and June.

The end of the school year often brings an increase in inquiries about eating disorder treatment as students return home from school and parents notice behavioral or weight changes that concern them. Summer is also when students typically have their annual check-ups with their doctors, which can bring an eating disorder to the forefront.

Summer is an ideal time to seek treatment without disrupting the school year, so students can return in the fall further on the path to recovery.

It’s important to note that for some, the summer months may be just the right amount of time for treatment, but for others, it may be advised that treatment continues into the school year.

We always encourage a client to utilize the time available to begin their recovery journey, but we never like to place a timeline on care. Recovery is not linear, and there is no guarantee that a summer of treatment will equal a lifetime of recovery and freedom from an eating disorder.

How to Support Your Recovery During the Summer

Maintain Structure Even When Routines Change

• Keep consistent meal and snack times
• Plan ahead for travel or busy days
• Maintain regular sleep and daily routines

Set Boundaries Around Body Talk

• Redirect conversations away from weight or appearance
• Use simple responses such as “I am focusing on my health right now”
• Limit exposure to triggering environments when possible

Plan for Social Events

• Review menus or plans ahead of time
• Bring a support person when possible
• Set realistic expectations for participation

Stay Connected to Support

• Continue working with your therapist or dietitian
• Attend support groups or check-ins
• Reach out when challenges arise

Flexible Treatment Options Are Available During the Summer

Summer schedules can vary, but treatment can adapt to meet those needs.

Options may include:

• Virtual care that allows continuity during travel
• Hybrid programming that combines in-person and remote support
• Flexible scheduling to accommodate changing routines

Starting treatment does not have to wait for a more “convenient” time. With multiple levels of care and formats available, individuals can begin recovery while still participating in summer plans and responsibilities.

Staying connected to consistent support, even during travel or schedule changes, helps maintain progress and reduces the risk of setbacks.

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FAQs About Eating Disorders and Summer

Why are eating disorders harder in the summer?

Summer can increase exposure to triggers such as body image pressure, unstructured routines, and social events centered around food.

Can I start treatment during summer break?

Yes. Summer can be an ideal time to begin treatment due to increased flexibility and fewer competing demands.

How do I handle vacations in recovery?

Planning ahead, maintaining structure, and staying connected to support can help make vacations more manageable.

Is virtual eating disorder treatment effective?

Yes. Virtual treatment can provide consistent, evidence-based care and help individuals stay connected to support regardless of location. Learn more about virtual treatment.

You Don’t Have to Wait for the “Right Time” to Start Recovery

Studies show that early intervention is key for eating disorder care, so truly any time is the best time to start your journey toward recovery.

Summer treatment doesn’t look the same for everyone, and if you have questions about treatment options, you are not alone. Monte Nido offers both in-person and virtual treatment for all levels of care across our five distinct brands and is in network with most major insurance companies.

We understand that pursuing recovery is a brave choice during any season, and we want to help.

If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have an eating disorder, please reach out to us here or by calling 855-737-1627.

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