When a loved one has an
eating disorder such as
anorexia,
bulimia, or
binge eating and is in treatment, you can show support
by:
- Showing and stating your
love.
- Avoiding the temptation to control the
person.
- Trusting that your loved one has developed his or her own
high values, ideals, and standards.
- Encouraging self-responsibility
for his or her actions, both successes and setbacks.
- Offering
support during times of discouragement.
You can also help by:
- Not watching or talking about how much he or she
eats.
- Not urging him or her to eat or not eat, unless this is part
of the plan for treatment.
- Avoiding comparisons with other
people.
- Listening to feelings.
- Not allowing yourself to
be controlled by his or her behavior.
If you struggle with handling your feelings and interactions with
someone who has an eating disorder, talk with a health professional.
Counseling, such as family therapy, can help you learn ways to encourage
healthy eating behaviors in children and teens who have eating
disorders.
