Supporting Loved Ones with Eating Disorders During the Holidays
It’s Chanukah and the holiday season—a time to gather with loved ones. During these moments, we may notice someone close to us is struggling, particularly with an eating disorder. Supporting them requires sensitivity and care.
Here are some ways to help:
Approach with Care: Avoid confrontation or judgmental language. Instead, express gentle concern, saying something like, "I’ve noticed you might be going through a tough time, and I want you to know I care. Eating disorders are challenging, but you’re not alone. I’m here to support you however I can."
Encourage Professional Support: Ask if they are seeing a therapist, doctor, registered dietitian, or psychiatrist. Offer to assist them in finding or reaching out to professionals if they’re open to it.
Ask How You Can Help: Use open-ended questions like, "How can I best support you?" Suggest specific ways to help, such as joining them for meals, being a listening ear, or helping them manage overwhelming situations.
Educate Yourself: Take time to learn about eating disorders to understand their challenges better. This knowledge will help you offer more informed and empathetic support.
Offer to Share Meals: Eating together can ease the stress associated with food. Propose sharing a meal or snack, whether in person or virtually, to help them feel more comfortable and connected.
Involve Others Carefully: If more support is needed, consider confiding in a trusted family member or friend—but do so privately and with sensitivity to the individual’s feelings and confidentiality.
Stay Positive and Loving: Offer reassurance and optimism. Avoid making comments about their appearance, eating habits, or progress. Focus on their strengths and remind them they are valued and loved.
Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment is essential for supporting someone with an eating disorder.
For further guidance, feel free to reach out to sbogartlpc@gmail.com for a free consultation or have a look around our website to learn more.
Our menorah lighting up the dark in front of the new B’Shalom Center in Hamden, Connecticut.
