A Guide to Supporting Eating Disorder Recovery
The journey to healing when living with an eating disorder is no walk in the park. This is largely because food plays such a prominent role in our everyday lives. Whether it’s socializing during office lunches, bonding at post-game dinners, or even just enjoying a night out, it’s important to have a healthy relationship with food.
Supporting someone through their eating disorder recovery can feel like unfamiliar territory. You want to help, but you’re often left with uneasiness about what to say or do. The truth is, your support matters, no matter what capacity.
If someone you care about is in recovery, here are ways you can show up for them in a meaningful way.
Educate Yourself About Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that go beyond vanity or a lack of willpower around food. They deeply affect your view of food and your body, resulting in potentially dangerous outcomes.
Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools you can bring to the table. Take time to learn about the specific type of eating disorder your loved one is dealing with. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating, or any other condition may have very different presentations and aspects of recovery worth noting. Understanding these differences can help you respond with true empathy.
As you research more information on the condition, be mindful that you’re sticking with reputable sources. Explore recovery stories to give a deeper perspective on what it’s like traveling down this path to recovery. It might even be helpful for you to attend a support group for families and friends.
Listen without Judgment
You’re never going to be expected to have all of the answers, so don’t put that burden on yourself either. Sometimes, your listening ears are more valuable than trying to fix the situation.
When your loved one wants to talk about their experience, turn on your active listening ears. Give your undivided attention, putting aside any distractions, and make eye contact to reassure them that you’re hearing them. Listen to what they are actually saying without feeling the need to immediately jump in with a solution.
As your conversation progresses, avoid making any comments about their appearance, weight, or eating habits, even if you mean them as a compliment. Certain phrases may work against your intentions and trigger anxiety and feelings of self-consciousness. What you can do is ask questions about how they’re feeling and what you can do for them in the present moment.
Respect Their Treatment Plan
Recovery from an eating disorder generally involves professional help, whether a therapist, nutritionist, physician, or any combination of practitioners. Your role in their journey isn’t to be an active part of their treatment team, but rather to respect their guidance and support the work that’s being done.
Don’t make it your job to monitor their eating or exercise habits unless you’ve been invited to participate in this aspect of the recovery process. Respect any boundaries that have been set, knowing that they are in place to prioritize their safety and well-being.
Create a Safe Environment
The home environment plays a crucial role in the recovery process. There are little tweaks to the immediate environment that may seem small, but can have a favorable impact. You can take practical steps to make your space more supportive:
Remove triggering materials like diet books, fitness magazines, or weight loss products
Avoid diet talk, calorie counting, or body-focused comments
Be mindful of how you share your own relationship with food
Keep mealtimes as stress-free as possible, focusing on neutral topics of conversation
Avoid making suggestions that anyone needs to finish their plate
Take Care of Yourself
Supporting someone through recovery can be emotionally draining. Make sure you’re getting the support you need.
If you or someone you care about is struggling, eating disorder therapy can provide the specialized support needed. Reach out today to get started.