How to Help a Friend With Eating and Body Image Issues
If you
are reading this, then chances are, you are concerned about the eating
habits, weight, or body image of someone you care about. We understand that
this can be a very difficult and scary time for you. Let us assure you that
you are doing a great thing by looking for more information!! This list may
not tell you everything you need to know about what to do in your specific
situation, but it will give you some helpful general ideas on what to do to
help your friend.
- Learn as much as
you can about eating disorders. Read books, articles, and brochures.
- Know the
differences between facts and myths about weight, nutrition, and
exercise. Knowing the facts will help you reason against any inaccurate
ideas that your friend may be using as excuses to maintain her
disordered eating patterns.
- Be honest. Talk
openly and honestly about your concerns with the person who is
struggling with eating or body image problems. Avoiding it or ignoring
it won't help!
- Be caring, but be
firm. Caring about your friend does not mean being manipulated by her.
Your friend must be responsible for her actions and their consequences.
Avoid making "rules," promises, or expectations that you
cannot or will not uphold (For example, "I promise not to tell
anyone." or, "If you do this one more time I'll never talk to you
again.").
- Tell someone. It
may seem difficult to know when, if at all, to tell someone else about
your concerns. Addressing body image or eating problems in their
beginning stages probably offers your friend the best chance for working
through these issues and becoming healthy again. Don't wait until the
situation is so severe that your friend's life is in danger. If you have
already spoken with your friend and still feel like more steps need to
be taken to address these issues, consider telling her parents, a
teacher, a doctor, a counselor, a nutritionist, or any trusted adult.
She needs as much support and understanding as possible from the people
in her life.
Remember:You cannot force someone to seek
help, change their habits, or adjust their attitudes. You will make important
progress in honestly sharing your concerns, providing support, and knowing
where to go for more information! People struggling with anorexia, bulimia,
or binge eating disorder do need professional help. There is help available,
and there is hope!
For more information, contact Eating Disorders Awareness
and Prevention, Inc. at 603 Stewart St., Suite 803, Seattle, WA98101, 1-800-931-2237. www.edap.org ©
2000 EDAP. This handout may be reproduced for educational purposes only.
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