Be their friend, not their therapist.
While I’ve had moderately mild issues with eating and self-image, I know that my challenges are nothing compared to that of someone who has or is living with an eating disorder. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of The American Psychiatric Association, they exist in eight different categories, and under each of those lies a list of obviously disheartening symptoms, some of which overlap with one another.
MORE: The Problem with Before-and-After Transformation Photos in Eating Disorder Recovery Stand Firm in Your Role Your role as friend remains the same. If you want to be a part of their support system, treat them as you always have by being frank and up-front and asking what they need from you. That’s all you can do.
“If you’re having this conversation, don’t do it in a public place, like a loud restaurant—for obvious reasons; you want to make sure they are completely comfortable,” says Roberts. “When someone is recovering, they often assume that others don’t want to hang out or feel like they’re going to act ‘weird’ around them. Keep the invitations open, even if you think they won’t want to come.
Avoid Triggers Fat talk, body-shaming of self or discussion of calories and diets are triggers for everyone, not just people struggling with an eating disorder. “Don’t act like their therapist. This will really hurt your friendship. They may depend on you too much for help or develop resentment towards you. If they are struggling with a meal or you observe that they are emotional and want to help, do what you would have done before. ‘Hey, what’s wrong, how I can help?,'” says Roberts.
“Don’t force them to eat or act frustrated. If you notice that this behavior is frequent and you are concerned, this is when you say something: ‘Hey, I’ve noticed that when we are together, you’re not eating. I don’t want to be your therapist—and as your friend I’m concerned because want you to feel good. How can I help?’”
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Survival Guide to Safe and Healthy Travel | Travelers' Health | CDCDon't let illness ruin your summer vacation! Before you head out, follow these tips for a safe and healthy trip: WednesdayMotivation WednesdayWisdom
Read more »
The Free ‘Fitness Tracker’ That May Be Just As Telling As Your FitbitTake a good look at the people in your social circle.
Read more »
4 Matter-of-Fact Ways to Minimize Your Pores for Good, According to DermatologistsIf you're dealing with wide, deep, and large pores and blackheads, try these easy tips and tricks for shrinking pores and getting rid of blackheads, and hiding big pores, fast.
Read more »
https://www.foodandwine.comFood & Wine goes way beyond mere eating and drinking. We&039;re on a mission to find the most exciting places, new experiences, emerging trends and sensations.
Read more »
California and Texas are both failing their neediest citizensCalifornia has the highest poverty rate in America when factoring in the cost of living. Texas has the tenth-highest
Read more »