6 Ways to Support Someone Struggling with an Eating Disorder-that have nothing to do with food
Supporting a loved one who is struggling with an eating disorder can be a challenging task. It’s a delicate situation that requires understanding, patience, and sensitivity. Here are six ways to offer help and support that do not involve food, but rather focus on emotional and psychological support.
Ask them what they need
Individuals with eating disorders often have control issues and may struggle with self-trust. Therefore, instead of assuming what they need, it’s essential to ask them. This approach helps to build a sense of personal agency and allows them to feel more in control of their situation.
Educate yourself on various Eating Disorders
Your loved one is likely exhausted, both physically and emotionally. Don’t expect them to explain everything about their condition to you. Instead, take the initiative and educate yourself about different types of eating disorders. If they express a desire for support, help them research and explore options that best suit their needs. We have a resource library on Eating Disorder education with book recommendations, podcast, social media accounts and research articles. Check it out here.
Help them make time for personal needs
Many people struggling with eating disorders are so busy taking care of others that they often neglect their own needs. Ask how you can help them carve out time to tend to their personal needs. This step could make a significant difference in their recovery journey, by reinforcing the importance of their needs.
Do not monitor their food choices
While it might be tempting to monitor their food choices closely, this could potentially push them away. It’s vital to respect their personal space and understanding that recovery is a process that takes time. Instead of giving your loved one advice, seek out the support of an Eating Disorder registered dietician. This is different than a regular dietitian or nutritionist. It is crucial to have the specialized lens! Reach out to us for our top suggestions.
Offer physical comfort
Offer a hug or a head massage. People with eating disorders are often hungry for connection, touch, and care. They might decline your offer, but the fact that you’ve offered can still make them feel loved and supported. You can also ask them what their sensory preferences are- do they like the smell of a certain candle? A weighted blanket? Soothing music? You can help curate their environment to make it feel safer.
Encourage them to pursue their passions
Encourage your loved ones to do things that bring them joy or ignite their passion. It can help build a sense of self outside of the eating disorder and can provide a much-needed distraction. In my own recovery, I explored working with horses, volunteering in child advocacy, painting, collaging, reading things that sparked curiosity, piano, and so much more. Filling my time with things outside of the Eating Disorder helped me created an identity separate from it, too.
Final Thoughts:
Remember, these suggestions might not work for everyone. Each person is unique and requires different types of support. You know your loved one best. However, staying silent and not doing anything is much worse. People struggling with eating disorders need to know they are cared for and not alone in their fight.
Looking to start therapy or recovery coaching? Reach out to a member of our team to set up a free consultation call, we would love to support you.
At Eating Disorder OCD Therapy, we offer compassionate, relational, and individualized care, rooted in the belief that healing is not one-size-fits-all. Honoring client autonomy, collaboration, and anti-oppressive, neurodivergent-affirming practices, we walk alongside you as the expert in your own life. We provide therapy for Eating Disorders, OCD, Body Image, Trauma, Maternal Mental Health, and offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Group Therapy (globally), Recovery Coaching (globally), and Clinical Consultation and Supervision for clinicians. We are currently accepting new clients for in-person therapy in San Diego and virtual services in California, Washington, Utah, and Florida.
