Working in a professional setting often stimulates a plethora of conversations surrounding office politics, gossip, and ultimately diets. Lunch break decisions, choice of attire, and special occasions are typically the catalyst for diet-related conversations that can be incredibly triggering for anyone who is, or has suffered from an eating disorder (ED), or disordered eating (DE).
Feelings of connection amongst colleagues through diet culture can create an imaginative bond of shared body-related struggles, when in reality, the foundation of this connection is based on the perpetuation of a false, idealized body. On the surface, diet-talk says “we can get through this together”, but truthfully, it simply states “you are not enough as you are”. However, this is an absolute lie.
The best version of the self is not the “thinnest”, nor is it the “healthiest” version that can be attained, rather it is the version that is most genuine to who we all are.
Talking about one’s own dietary restrictions and exercise regime has become commonplace watercooler talk - the success of this new diet regime is often measured by the amount of weight lost, or the adherence to its irrational restrictions. Colleagues offer encouraging responses such as “good job”, “you have so much self-control”, and “how did you do that?”, not realizing the implications of such reactions which can trigger self-destructive behaviours. These conversations are further perpetuated by the reluctance to share countering arguments or opinions in order to maintain casual and professional relations.
So how should one navigate diet-related conversations when they are brought up, and create an uncomfortable work environment?
1. Don’t Engage
Engaging in discussions about disordered behaviour only serve to trigger others further. Not only does this become triggering, it also stimulates further conversation about the topic. Choose to focus on other aspects of what is being said in order to navigate away from the conversation.
2. Speak Up
While this can be an uncomfortable thing to do as it can create friction or conflict within the workplace, it can be done respectfully. Understand that everyone has their own unique lived experiences with diet-culture, and may not always be on the same page. Keep this in mind when speaking up about any diet-related discussions that promote disordered eating behaviours.
3. Leave the room if needed
If the topic is too triggering or uncomfortable, it is okay to step out of the room for a few moments.
4. Talk to them in private
If the person engaging in the conversation is exhibiting red flags, do not assume they are suffering from an ED/DE, but do speak to them in private about any concerning or dangerous behaviours, if it is appropriate and comfortable to do so. Simply reaching out to ask “are you okay?”, “do you need to talk?”, or even “have you spoken about this to your doctor?” can bring awareness to the situation. It is important not to make them feel bad about engaging in this topic, as diet-culture is insidious in our society.
5. Don’t blame yourself
While listening in on conversations motivated by diet-culture can be an incredibly frustrating experience, it is impossible to be responsible for moderating all conversations. Even when the adverse consequences of diets and diet-culture are brought up, it is entirely likely and possible that people will continue to engage with this topic again in the future. It is nobody’s responsibility to take on the burdens of a fundamentally flawed society that preys on the vulnerabilities around self-image, and feelings of self-worth.
At the end of the day, conversations related to weight loss and dieting can be upsetting and frustrating to listen to, but they can also be excellent starting points for conversations surrounding the detriments and impacts of diet-culture. Fear of causing workplace conflicts can be mitigated by practicing empathy and respect for others when choosing to speak up; however, it is always okay to step away from the conversation as well.
Remember that while teaching and informing others is a courtesy, it is protecting one’s own mental health and well-being that is crucial.
Links to Resources:
If you are in BC, dial 811 to speak with a dietitian or therapist
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