NEDA TOOLKIT for Parents
How to take care of yourself while caring for a loved one
with an eating disorder
Take time for yourself. Keep in mind that what you
do is a much more powerful message than what
you say. Being a good role model for your child or
family member during the healing process means
taking care of your own physical, emotional, and
spiritual needs.
If you are married or in a significant relationship,
spend time on that relationship. Talk daily to your
partner about your feelings and frustrations. Take
time for a hug. If time allows, make a date for
something you both enjoy to have fun.
Seek support from family, friends, and/or
professionals whom you find to be helpful. Allow
yourself to be cared for.
Ask for help with the mundane. It makes your
friends feel useful and keeps you from becoming
isolated. Make a list of things you can use help
with: laundry, errands, lawn care, housecleaning,
meals for the rest of the family. If someone says,
“Let me know if there is anything I can help with,”
show them your list of unassigned tasks. Ask what
they can do.
Remind yourself daily that you are doing the best
for your child or family member. Keeping a journal
can help— making a self-commitment to jot down
one positive thought each day can help.
Find support in what others are saying – join a
local or online support group.
Say “No” when you can. Give yourself a break.
Don’t take on any added responsibilities at this
time. Explore your options if you think you may need to
leave work temporarily to provide full-time care.
Learn about the Family and Medical Leave Act
(FMLA). FMLA provides job protection for
employees who must leave their job for family
medical concerns.
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