What to Do If You Have an Eating Disorder?

• Acknowledge that disordered eating is destructive and that you need to change
• Take responsibility for your own recovery
• Recognize that you cannot overcome an eating disorder alone; seek professional help
• Learn to identify feelings that are related to your disordered eating and learn to express those feelings
• Stop comparing yourself to others
• Strive to recognize that you are a unique and valuable person
• Set small personal goals regarding healthy eating, body image and relationships
• Nurture yourself in ways other than by using food for emotional comfort
• Turn to people, not food, for support
• Learn to enjoy being in your body. Take part in activities such as dance, swimming and biking.

Caring Confrontations by Family or Friends

Shame and denial are common for those who experience an eating disorder. A caring confrontation may be necessary. If you suspect someone you know may have an eating disorder the following guide will prepare you to talk with them.

1. Preparation:
   • Choose the person who has the best rapport with the individual
   • Identify the problematic issues (mood swings, social withdrawal, physical illness, etc.)
   • Practice the caring confrontation with a friend or health professional
   • Discover the resources that are available for the individual
   • Be aware of your own feelings of anger, frustration, fear and concern
2. Delivery:
   
   • Speak to the person privately
   • Show you care about the person
   • Be assertive but remain calm
   • Communicate your concerns about behaviours, statements and attitudes
   • Be non-judgmental and accepting of the individual
   • Encourage them to seek professional help
3. Response:
   • Let the individual respond and listen carefully with empathy
   • Communicate your concern and a desire to talk about the problem
   • Don’t get into arguments
4. After you have talked:
   • Read as much as possible about eating disorders
   • Be persistent, but not pushy, in trying to get them to seek help. If they are in physical danger because of the eating disorder, you may need to intervene to save a life
   • Do not force them to eat
   • Do not tempt them with their favourite high calorie foods
   • Do not let your conversations focus on food and weight
   • Do not try to become the person’s therapist