*Content Warning: This post discusses sensitive topics related to eating disorders, mental health, and suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, you can contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for immediate help. Additional crisis resources and hotlines are provided at the end of the post. The world is a better place with you in it.

As summer winds down and we prepare to reenter the school and work year, it's common to experience what some call the "September Scaries." However, rather than succumbing to the stress and anxiety, let's explore ways to carry the vacation vibe with us throughout the year.

Today, it’s very easy to get caught in a comparison trap, especially as we connect with others through various forms of social media. While social comparison theory tells us that it's normal for us to compare our lives and circumstances to others, it’s generally not helpful and can be incredibly destructive if we are comparing our food choices.