The Summer Slump: Why Eating Disorder Behaviors Often Surge in the Summer

What Is the Summer Slump and Why Does It Matter?

The summer slump refers to a seasonal dip in structure, social support, and routine, especially common among teens, college students, and anyone whose schedule shifts in the summer. While it may seem like an exciting time to get a break from the hustle and bustle of the school year, it can often lead to increased anxiety, isolation, and vulnerability to disordered eating behaviors.

Why Summer Is a High-Risk Time for Eating Disorders

1. Body Image Pressures and “Summer Body” Culture
   Summer often means more time in shorts, swimsuits, and social situations. This can heighten body image issues, which can lead to restrictive behaviors or compulsive exercise. Messages about “getting in shape for summer” are rampant and reinforce the idea that our worth is tied to our appearance.

2. Loss of Structure and Routine
   One of the most common seasonal triggers for eating disorders is the sudden lack of daily structure. When meals, sleep, and movement lose their rhythm, recovery can feel less grounded. The unpredictability of a summer routine can lead to a spike in needing to control something, and often times our bodies and food become the thing to control.

3. Social Media and Comparison Traps
   Platforms like Instagram and TikTok become flooded with vacation photos, diet culture, and fitness trends. For someone navigating eating disorder recovery, this type of content can fuel negative self-talk and body comparisons.

4. Isolation and Loneliness
   Many clients report feeling more isolated during summer, especially if school or therapy pauses. This disconnection can create a perfect storm for eating disorder symptoms to reemerge or intensify.

How to Protect Your Recovery This Summer

As an eating disorder therapist offering in-person and telehealth therapy in Fairfield, CT, I’ve helped many clients navigate the challenges of summer. Here are practical ways to protect your progress:

• Create a Summer Routine
  Even if your schedule is looser, build anchors into your day such as regular meals, rest time, and movement that feels good (not punishing).

• Watch for Warning Signs
  Keep an eye out for early signs of eating disorder relapse, which can look like an increase food rules, skipping meals, obsessive exercise, or isolating behavior.

• Limit Exposure to Diet Culture
  Consider muting social media accounts that promote restrictive eating, rapid weight loss, or toxic body ideals. Follow recovery-focused content instead.

• Stay Connected to Support
  Whether it’s your therapist, a support group, or close friends, don’t let summer break your support system. Eating disorder recovery is hard to maintain in isolation.

• Practice Self-Compassion
  If you notice a slip in behavior, respond with curiosity, not shame. Ask yourself: What am I feeling? What do I need right now?

You’re Not Alone This Summer

Summer can be hard for those struggling with disordered eating, negative body image, or trauma around food and appearance. The good news? You don’t have to navigate it by yourself.

Ready to Begin Your Recovery Journey?

If you're looking for eating disorder therapy in Fairfield, CT or across Connecticut via telehealth, my practice is here to support you. If you're seeking support for disordered eating or want to work on improving your relationship with your body, you're not alone. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation or learn more about our eating disorder therapy services in Fairfield County and virtually throughout Connecticut.

With Love,

Briana

Visit @naturallyyoucounseling on Instagram for more tips, information, and support.