Center for Growth / Therapy in Philadelphia
Strategies For Supporting A Person Recovering from an Eating Disorder
* Ask them how they are feeling today
* Ask them how their job/school is going
* Ask them who made them laugh today
* Ask them what made them sad today
* Ask them what made them angry today
* Send them or give them a card
* Call them
* Let them know you care
* Ask if there is anything you can do to help
* Don’t criticize other people or yourself for being over or underweight
* Be supportive but don’t feel the responsibility to be their therapist
* Model healthy eating behaviors
* Encourage them to seek professional help
* Listen closely when they express their feelings and needs
* Ask them if there is anything you are doing that is not helpful
There are many ways to personalize the above strategies for supporting a person recovering from an eating disorder. However, this requires a) getting involved b) making the time c) being invested. Sometimes simply remembering what is going on in their world and asking questions and being there is enough. To help guide your overall knowledge about the specific areas that this person may be struggling with, read some books (or our website) about eating disorders.
Struggling? Want specific guidance. Help is available. We are located in Center City, Philadelphia PA, Ocean City NJ, Santa Fe NM, Mechanicsville VA 215 922 5683 x 100. Call today and schedule an available.
