6 ways to help someone with an eating disorder || Dunnebells

Eating disorders involve eating habits that prove to be very unhealthy and toxic for their victims both short-term and long-term. A lot of times, people who suffer from eating disorders are not even aware of their problems or maybe the extent of how bad this disorder could be.

As someone who has recovered after years of struggling with my binge-eating disorder, I cannot tell you how important it is to seek help. This article though has a focus on those people who have noticed some eating disorder tendencies in friends or family and are not sure what to do.

If your loved one is following a very rigid and strict diet routine, or if there are periods of binge eating help followed by starvation, there are chances that they may be suffering from an eating disorder. Here are a few ways in which you can approach this sensitive situation with consideration.

Here are 6 ways to help someone struggling with an eating disorder and needs binge eating help:

1. SPEAK UP IF YOU FEEL LIKE SOMETHING ISN’T RIGHT

If you have speculations that someone around is battling an eating disorder, I believe you should just say something. Anything. Victims of eating disorders are under the impression that their disease is helping them. This twisted narrative that victims play in their heads is one of the reasons why their judgment is clouded. So, if you are concerned about someone, talk to them. Let them know you are there for them and will support them through this battle. They may not accept your help right away and they may not even receive the conversation well, but at least you spoke up and said something to try and help them.

2. LISTEN TO WHAT THEY HAVE TO SAY, EVEN IF IT IS DIFFICULT

When you approach someone with an eating disorder, you must be prepared to hear their side of the story. Victims of such diseases have reasons which justify their actions. These reasons may not seem valid to you, but you should listen to them as best you can anyway. Even if you do not agree with their justifications, try not to intervene with them and hear them out first. Hold space for them to be heard. You may be the very first person they have ever talked to about this.

3. HELP THEM SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP AND BE THERE WITH THEM

Getting help is one of the most difficult things people with mental disorders decide to do. Trust me when I say, the extra push and support from loved ones to go seek help makes a big difference. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it is about time, we destigmatized it. If you know someone who is struggling, normalize it and encourage them to explore the options when it comes to seeking help from professionals like eating disorder coach. Also, if possible support them throughout this process by going to meetings or having phone calls with professionals (Mindset Transformation Coach) with them.

4. CHALLENGE THEM TO THINK ABOUT RECOVERY SERIOUSLY

This one can be really difficult as recovering from a mental disorder such as an eating disorder is like jumping the highest of hurdles every hour. With each little step, you make progress. However, it is difficult to stay motivated. By being a strong support system, you can help people stay on the right track and keep them motivated Also, push them towards their end goal and remind them of it constantly. It is easy for victims to go spiralling back to their old ways but with a little support to recovery, it becomes easier.

5. LEAVE THEM REMINDERS OF HOW MUCH YOU VALUE THEIR LIFE

Constantly reminding your friend that their disease does not define them is an important part of recovery. Show them how much you appreciate them and remind them they don’t need to change to be liked or loved by anyone. Express love so that they know people care about them. Recovery is a sensitive process, and I recommend you try your best to make it as easy for your loved one as possible. On a side note, you yourself may need some help and support when helping someone recover, so don’t be afraid to lean on your support system at the same time.

6. ENCOURAGE THEM TO MAKE THE JOURNEY TO RECOVERY FUN

Eating disorders take a huge toll on a person's mental health. They may not feel like themselves going through this disease. You must try to reintroduce them to life and what this beautiful time on earth has to offer. Try and teach them how to have fun again and show them that they are more than just their disease. 

Eating disorders are sensitive and volatile situations that can escalate at any given point. To help your friend through recovery, you can be a strong support system for them, and offer to be there for them in every way possible. Recovery is a tough affair with countless obstacles, and your loved one needs your support more than you can imagine.

A fantastic resource to visit when it comes to Eating DIsorders is: https://nedic.ca/

HELPING SOMEONE WITH AN EATING DISORDER

I believe that through open, supportive dialogue, we can break the shame, stigma and silence that affect nearly 1 million Canadians living with a diagnosable eating disorder.

As someone who recovered from a binge-eating disorder, I work with clients around the world using my first-hand experience of Mindset Training Program however, there are other options available to individuals.

You can contact NEDIC on their toll-free helpline 1-866-633-4220 (9 am - 5 pm)

WHAT ARE EATING DISORDERS?

Eating disorders are different for every individual. An eating disorder will usually mean limiting the amount of food eaten (restricting calories), eating very large quantities of food at once (binge eating), Purgin or using laxatives to get rid of consumed food, or a combination of these behaviours.

Common eating disorders include:

• Anorexia

• Binge eating disorder

• Bulimia

if you suspect an emergency situation, such as suicide or medical complications, call 911 for immediate help.

Be sure to join this free group BE THE FIRE FITNESS FAM full of fitness motivation, real talk about eating disorders, health and wellness resources, and one of the best supportive communities in the fitness space going around!