Help Someone With
an Eating Disorder
Eating disorders affect millions of people. In some serious cases, they can even cause death. An eating disorder is both a medical and psychological problem. If you know of or suspect that someone has this problem, here are some ways you can help.
Instructions
1. Find an appropriate time to talk to her. Follow her cues and let her tell you as much or as little as she wants. Do not force her to tell you anything she is not ready to share.
2. Respect him and do not criticize, pass judgment or give advice unless he asks for it.
3. Listen with your heart and show her you truly care. Be genuine in your approach by first building a relationship of trust. If she confides in you, it is a sign of her awareness of the problem and she may want help.
4. Offer your moral support. Go with him to see a therapist or doctor if he is afraid to do so alone.
5. Choose your words carefully. Do not use words that make her feel bad or evoke unpleasant memories of her eating disorder. Words such as, "You look terrible.," "You are ruining your life." or "Did you eat anything today?" are unnecessary.
6. Show patience and be positive. Have faith and hope. It can take a long time for her to recover or even to want to change.
7. Encourage and assure him that it is possible to overcome the disorder if he expresses a desire to seek help. Show understanding and love.
8. Find time to take a break yourself as this can be an exhausting, frustrating and long process.
9. Give her plenty of opportunities to come around. Don't give up as you may make a difference in her life.
10. Seek immediate medical help for him if he is in danger of losing his life.
Tags: Help Someone, Help Someone With, Someone With, Someone With Eating, With Eating, With Eating Disorder