When a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, supporting them through their struggle and recovery may feel overwhelming. It is important to remember that the best way to support your loved one is by acting in a supportive and loving capacity. 

• Provide practical support, and don’t forget about the person behind the eating disorder
• Offer to help with practical tasks (laundry, transportation to and from appointments)
• Arrange activities that don’t involve food or eating so your loved one can continue to take part
• Encourage the sufferer to follow through with treatment recommendations
• Distract your loved one during and after meals to help with anxiety
• Educate yourself on eating disorders; learn the jargon 
• Learn the differences between facts and myths about weight, nutrition, and exercise 
• When it doubt, ask. They can’t read your mind, and you can’t read theirs
• Ask what you can do to help 
• Ask how they are feeling
• Listen openly and reflectively 
• Be patient and nonjudgmental
• Validate their feelings and their emotional pain, especially when they share something difficult or reveal that they have kept a secret
• Refrain from telling the person what they should do
• Continue to reach out—individuals with eating disorders may find it hard to socialize and may push people away
• Express any concerns that arise 
• Focus on the emotional aspects of an eating disorder, not just the physical ones
• Model a balanced relationship with food, weight, and exercise
• Avoid discussions about food, weight, and eating, especially your own habits or those of others
• Focus on positive personality traits and other qualities that have nothing to do with appearance
• Don’t forget to take care of yourself, and examine your own thoughts
• Remember that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint
• Don’t take their actions personally
• Set boundaries to preserve your own emotional well-being