how do i support a loved one with an eating disorder?

@hannahbanana0016

As a woman who has recovered from anorexia and binge eating, I needed the space to grow. The best pathway is to be nonjudgemental and compassionate and kind. Give the person with the ED time and support. Some people with EDs are trying to control something about their life so they won't fall apart. However it is important to know that is not the only reason people struggle with EDs. Help the person withan ED develop a healthy relationship with food and exercise, help them find balance and integrity.

@hannahbanana0016

There's a great post that offers some Dos and Don'ts of supporting someone with an eating disorder here

In general, what I found really helpful was when people who were supporting me could strike a balance between supporting me with the eating disorder and not only seeing me as a walking eating disorder. So, for instance, I appreciated when someone would check in with me or ask what might help and give me space to talk about what I was struggling with, but it made it harder when I had friends who would just sort of stare me down every meal and try to push me further than I could go. I think that asking questions about what can help is a good way to figure our what she needs, and you could even offer some ideas, but let her tell you what is helpful. E.g.,

"Would you like any help researching support groups or therapy options?"

"During meals, is it helpful if I encourage you, or if we talk about other things to not have the focus be on it?"

"When you need to talk about something, is it easier if I ask how you're doing or if I wait for you to tell me?"

"What sorts of things make it easier or harder?"

And, of course, don't hesitate to reach out for support yourself - supporting someone with an eating disorder is hard and can be really emotional and it's okay to need support through it.