Most people recognize the seriousness of eating disorders. They affect about 9% of the population and can lead to long-term health repercussions, or even death.
Seeing someone you care about struggle with disordered eating can be a difficult thing to witness. You might notice that they’ve stopped eating enough to maintain a healthy weight. Or, maybe they’re exhibiting suspicious behaviors, like binge eating or going to the bathroom shortly after every meal.
Unfortunately, discussing eating disorders isn’t easy. It often feels like a “taboo” subject, or something you’re not supposed to bring up. But, talking to someone you care about and expressing your concerns could end up saving their life.
With that in mind, let’s cover how you can safely and effectively discuss eating disorders. You never know who you might impact with your words, or the life you might change when you encourage an open conversation.
Ask for a Private Time and Place to Talk
If you’re going to have a conversation with your loved one about something this serious, it can’t be rushed. It also shouldn’t be done in front of other people.
Let them know you would like to talk with them about something important, and find a time and place that works for you both. Try to choose a place with few distractions, and make sure you’re carving out enough time to have a long conversation without feeling rushed.
The privacy might help your loved one feel more comfortable opening up, and by giving yourself enough time, you can be there to provide support as needed without feeling obligated to cut things short.
Express Your Concerns
Using “I” statements is incredibly important when you’re discussing eating disorders. The last thing you want to do is make the person struggling feel like they’re the ones to blame. If they feel like they’ve done something wrong or shameful, they might double down and give into their disordered thoughts even more.
Try saying things like “I’ve noticed you’re not eating meals with us as a family anymore”, or “I’m concerned that you don’t seem to be eating throughout the day.” Being gentle with your words will keep you from sounding accusatory.
Drop the Stigma
Many people realize they’re struggling with disordered eating but they feel like they can’t stop. They might even be afraid to reach out for help because of the stigma often associated with eating disorders.
Remind your loved one that there is no shame in what they’re going through. Disordered eating can become something that is completely out of an individual’s control. It’s a mental health need, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of.
Once you remind them of that and offer your support, encourage them to get help. In cases where they might be struggling with health issues because of their disorder, that might include medical attention or a stay in a rehabilitative space.
Often, however, encouraging them to work with a mental health professional can make a big difference. A therapist can help someone get to the root cause of their eating disorder. It can stem from control issues, grief, low self-esteem, or dozens of other possibilities. Getting to that underlying cause gives both the therapist and the person struggling a launchpad toward healing. Not only can a therapist help that person to incorporate healthy habits into their routine, but they can help with true growth from the inside out. Don’t hesitate to reach out and Contact Us.
If someone you know and care about is struggling with an eating disorder, don’t hesitate to talk to them. Be patient, understanding, and supportive, and you’ll be more likely to help them open up. When you show them that you don’t care about the stigma surrounding disordered eating, they’re less likely to care about it, too. If you or a loved one want more information, visit the National Eating Disorder Association or the local Eating Disorder Recovery Center.