How to Support Someone With an Eating Disorder

You're here because someone you care about is facing the desafíos of an eating disorder. Supporting them can be a difficult but rewarding experience, and we'll help you through this journey. This guide offers essential information and guidance on how to be an effective source of comfort and assistance to someone battling an eating disorder.

Understanding Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are serious illnesses not a choice—biological and psychological factors contribute to their development. Common types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED).

Educating Yourself

To provide informed support, it's vital to learn more about eating disorders. Read books, articles, and websites from reputable sources. This will help you understand the complexities of eating disorders and how they impact your loved one.

Approaching the Subject

Talking to your loved one about their eating disorder can be challenging, but open communication is crucial. Choose a quiet, private moment to express your concern and offer your unconditional support. Use "I" statements to convey your feelings and observations without blame or accusation.

Expressing Empathy

Empathy is key. Try to see things from your loved one's perspective, understanding the psychological and emotional struggles they're going through. This will enable you to respond with compassion rather than judgment.

Offering Support, Not Advice

Advice can be counterproductive, as it may make your loved one feel invalidated or misunderstood. Instead, focus on listening actively, validating their feelings, and offering practical support.

Encouraging Professional Help

Eating disorders are serious illnesses that require professional treatment. Encourage your loved one to seek help from qualified therapists, dietitians, or medical doctors specializing in eating disorders. You can accompany them to appointments or assist in finding suitable treatment options.

Providing Emotional Support

Being there for your loved one and offering emotional support is paramount. Simply listening, offering encouragement, or validating their feelings can make a world of difference. Let them know you're there, no matter what.

Avoiding Enabling Behaviors

Enabling behaviors unintentionally support or perpetuate the eating disorder. Examples include cooking special meals, excusing eating disorder behaviors, or covering up symptoms. While it's natural to want to help, enabling behaviors can hinder recovery.

Practicing Self-Care

Supporting someone with an eating disorder can be emotionally and physically draining. Therefore, it's crucial to take care of yourself as well. Make time for rest, proper nutrition, and activities that bring you joy. Remember, you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Be Patient

Recovery from an eating disorder is a gradual and often bumpy process. There may be setbacks, but it's important to remain patient and supportive throughout the journey. Celebrate every small victory and remind your loved one that they have the strength and resilience to overcome this challenge.