February 2024 Words Matter: 10 Tips for Being Eating Disorder Aware and Practicing Thoughtful Communication
By Devanshi Shah
Eating disorder rates are increasing across the world.
In the US, almost half of the population knows at least one person with an eating disorder, which means you are likely interacting with this population. Knowing how to help, what to say (or not say), or what to do can be the difference between helping and harming. The impact of comments on appearance, weight, or eating habits can often be long-lasting and intensify feelings of shame and inadequacy. Whether you know someone struggling or are actively supporting someone on their recovery journey, it becomes clear that our words and actions play an important role in nurturing a supportive recovery environment.
Here are some tips to help you figure out what might be helpful.
1. Don’t Comment on Looks:
Avoid talking about weight or appearance. Focus on their strengths and positive actions to boost their self-image. For example: “You always give the best advice when I need it.” Avoiding comments about body size and shape is also important to more than just individuals with an eating disorder and can help foster a positive body image and prevent eating disorders.
2. Avoid Food and Diet Talk:
Stay away from talking about diets, weight loss, or other food rules, as these topics can be distressing. It can lead to comparison, shame, and self-judgement. Stick to other topics to make conversations feel safe.
3. Talk About Feelings:
Discuss feelings and experiences, not just how they look or eat. Actively listen without judgment, creating a space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves without fear of criticism.
4. Use “I” Statements:
Express concerns using “I” statements to show support without accusation. For example, say, “I’ve noticed you seem to be going through a tough time, and I’m here to support you.”
5. Offer Support Without Pressure:
Let them know you’re there to talk or listen when they’re ready but avoid pressuring them to open up about their eating disorder. For example, you can make someone a meal but don’t pressure them into eating it.
6. Educate Yourself:
Take time to educate yourself about eating disorders, their complexities, and the recovery process – knowing more can help you provide meaningful support.
7. Be Patient:
Supporting someone through eating disorder recovery requires a lot of patience. It is essential to remember that setbacks may occur, and expressing frustration or impatience can lead to shame or hopelessness for the person in recovery. The recovery journey is a gradual and often challenging process. Encouragement, understanding, and support are crucial.
8. Encourage Professional Help:
Suggest getting help from eating disorder specialized therapists, dietitians, and medical professionals. Offer to help find professionals to build a recovery team.
9. Use Positive Reinforcement:
It is easy to skip over the small wins and only focus on the very noticeable big wins. Celebrate the small achievements just as much as the bigger ones. This will help encourage ongoing recovery efforts and build self-confidence.
10. Respect Boundaries:
Respect their need for privacy and personal space. Some people might want to keep their recovery private, and others might be more open to sharing. As with other mental and physical health topics, individuals need to be offered the opportunity to share when they are ready.
Family Support:
Caring for someone with an eating disorder can be tough for families too. Here are some additional tips for parents:
1. Lead by Example:
Parents can help model healthy eating habits and a positive body image to support their child’s recovery. Be mindful about how you talk about your own body and eating habits, not just your child’s.
2. Make Mealtimes Enjoyable:
Turn family meals into positive experiences. Focus on enjoying each other’s company and fun conversation topics to create positive associations with meals. Avoid discussing grades, assignments, stressful topics, or arguments at the dinner table. These conversations may heighten anxiety and stress levels, potentially triggering negative emotions that can interfere with the individual’s ability to focus on and enjoy their food.
3. Avoid Power Struggles:
Instead of forcing eating through power struggles, create a supportive relationship without pressure. Try statements like “let’s take a bite together” or “let’s take some deep breaths together before we start eating”.
In conclusion, your supportive and understanding approach can make a big difference in the recovery journey. Adapting communication and involving family support can create a nurturing environment for those dealing with eating disorders. Remember, everyone’s experience is unique, so tailor your approach based on individual needs for effective support.
Get to Know our Author:
Shah is currently undertaking a distance dietetic internship a the Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center. Hailing from Cheyenne, Wyoming, she initially ventured from India to pursue her master’s and become a registered dietitian in 2019. For the past two years, she has been dedicated to the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, gaining invaluable experience.
Intrigued by clinical nutrition, Shah’s career path is geared towards becoming a clinical dietitian in a hospital setting. Simultaneously, she aspires to establish a small business with a primary focus on supporting individuals with eating disorders.
When speaking of her elective rotation at the Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center, she has been particularly keen on delving into the realm of eating disorder counseling. This opportunity aligns seamlessly with her career goals and has allowed her to deepen her understanding of this critical aspect of nutrition care.
Shah says “The prospect of learning how to counsel patients with eating disorders excites me the most. I believe it’s an essential skill that not only enhances my professional competence but also allows me to make a meaningful impact on individuals’ lives. I am eager to absorb insights, engage with experts, and contribute to the center’s mission of providing holistic nutrition guidance. Looking forward to this enriching experience!”
More Information
For additional resources for healthy eating, check out these programs from our registered dietitian nutritionists. Find delicious and healthy recipes on our Recipes page! More health tips are also available at the College of Health and Human Sciences Pinterest board. Lastly, don’t forget to sign up for the KRNC monthly newsletter!