Family, friends and carers
Family and friends are important
Carers are family, friends, or close others of a person with an eating disorder. They are an essential resource for the prevention, assessment and treatment of eating disorders. In the treatment process, carers can expect to be treated with respect and empathy. They have a right to receive information and education about eating disorders and to be apprised of the risks to their loved one with an eating disorder so that they can provide optimal support. They are a necessary resource and partner for success in prevention and treatment. Their views, perspective and information are important to the evaluation process when an eating disorder is suspected or occurs. Where appropriate, carers are an active part of the decision-making and planning in treatment. The role of carers in the treatment process is best determined by collaboration between the person with the eating disorder, carers, and treatment providers. (Adapted from the World Wide Charter on Action for Eating Disorders sponsored by the Academy for Eating Disorders, 2006).
Here are some tips for family and friends
- Don't blame yourself for the eating disorder. Eating disorders are illnesses with multiple and complex causes. Parents don't cause eating disorders. No matter what has happened in the past, the best thing to do is to look and move forward. For an excellent discussion by experts about the causes of eating disorders and why parents are not to blame click on: "Do parents cause eating disorders? The experts speak," at http://www.feast-ed.org/understandingeds/causeofeds.html
- All loved ones can play a part in helping a person get better.
- In the case of a child or teen with an eating disorder, work with treatment professionals. Express your concerns and give your observations. Be part of treatment decision-making and ask what you can do to help.
- Carers need to get support for themselves.
- Eating disorders are illnesses not a choice. View your loved one as separate from the illness.
- Encourage sticking with treatment. It can take a while, even after the eating disorder behaviors have subsided.
- Encourage family meals. Sitting down together to share a common meal and conversation promotes both healthy eating habits and healing connection among family and friends.
- Learn about hurtful and negative messages in the media. Learn to combat media messages that promote size and shape prejudice.
- Talk about eating and exercising for health and optimal physical and mental functioning rather than for weight change.
- Encourage and value the development of internal characteristics rather than appearance-based characteristics.
Most of all, maintain hope. Your support is a necessary resource and can make the difference in prevention and recovery from eating disorders.
