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 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, WA
98101, 1-800-931-2237. www.edap.org © 2000 EDAP. This handout
may be reproduced for educational purposes only.
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