Having a strong support network is important to recovery. Whether you're a loved one or a professional, there are steps you can take to offer support.
How to Help a Loved One
Friends and family are often key to encouraging loved ones with eating and/or body image issues to seek help. Whether they are unaware that there is a problem, afraid or ashamed to reach out, or ambivalent about giving up their concerning behaviors, many sufferers find it difficult to seek help. Family and friends can play an important role in identifying worrying symptoms to the sufferer and encouraging them to seek help. Read more >
Coaches and Trainers
The benefits of sport are well recognized: organized athletics build self-esteem, promote physical conditioning, enhance skills, teach the value of teamwork, and set a foundation for lifelong physical activity. Athletic competition, however, can also cause severe psychological and physical stress that is amplified for those struggling with anxiety, depression, and perfectionism. When athletic pressures are added to cultural ideals that emphasize a certain body type, the risks increase to develop disordered eating. Read more >
Educators
Learn warning signs and symptoms in a school setting, tips for meeting with a student who may be at-risk, and how to support students who are in treatment. Read more >
Workplace
Like many illnesses, eating disorders can affect adults in the workforce. Many people with eating disorders are perfectionistic, leading them to be highly driven and competent—often ideal employees. If someone doesn’t learn to manage these traits, however, they can contribute to disordered eating or an eating disorder. Read more >
Information for Treatment Providers
Eating disorders are associated with high use of medical resources, but often go unrecognized in medical settings. All physicians should be alert to signs and symptoms of these relatively common behavioral disorders. Read more >
