NEDA Navigator Guidebook
Not for public distribution. For exclusive use by official NEDA Navigators
Frequently Asked Questions
(By Topics)
This document was prepared by gathering frequently asked questions from families and
friends of those suffering from an eating disorder (referred to as “contacts” in this
document). They are organized according to these topics: Personal, Medical, Nutritional,
Treatment/Referral, and Miscellaneous. They’re stated as if the contact is asking a NEDA
Navigator (NN) the question. You may find them useful when answering questions you
encounter as a NN, or use them as a basis for furthering conversations. This list is not
exhaustive and will be updated as new types of questions arise that would be helpful to
include. Personal
1. Q: How did this happen?
There is not a singular cause for an eating disorder and each case is unique. Eating disorders
are complex conditions that arise from a long-standing history of behavioral, biological,
emotional, psychological, interpersonal and social factors. Parents are not responsible for
this. There is no evidence that “bad parenting” causes eating disorders, but learning good
parenting skills can help your child overcome an eating disorder. Every parent faced with
this situation asks this question. Think of this situation: Bring 5 children to the beach for a
day, and 1 will probably get at least a mild sunburn while the others do not, even though
they are exposed to the same amount of sun for the same amount of time. The same applies
to ED’s. Everybody is different.
To address the question of the cause of ED’s, there are typically multiple reasons —
biological, psychological and social – that contribute. There are genetic vulnerabilities that
can be inherited; “temperamental wiring,” such as anxiety or depression. Trauma can add to
the risk of vulnerability to an ED. Adolescent females do seem to be at higher risk than other
populations. Living in a “Westernized” society can contribute as well. It is difficult to
generalize any causes for ED’s; you simply need to address the specific issues that the
afflicted individual has. Tell the contact to learn all they can, and focus their attention on
how to help. You can refer the contact to the handout “Factors that may Contribute to
Eating Disorders,” a free download on the NEDA website under Information & Resources:
http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/information-resources/general-information. php#causes-eating-disorders
2. Q: A parent may ask you, as a NN: Do you know XYZ therapist? You do, but feel you cannot
recommend her or him, and in fact feel harm could be done. What do you say?
It is crucial in your position as an NN that you tell a contact that you are required
to remain neutral concerning recommendations. Remember, that individuals vary in their
need and requirements for therapy. You can refer them to the list of local and regional
therapists you have developed for this purpose (training on how to do this is provided by
NEDA).You can also refer them to reputable local and regional organizations for more
information on treatment providers. NEDA’s Parent Toolkit can have more helpful
Frequently Asked Questions ▪ Page 1
©2012 National Eating Disorders Association. All Rights Reserved.
Reproduction or other use of this outline without the express written consent of the National Eating Disorders
Association is prohibited.
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