Get Help For A Loved One

What to do if you suspect someone with an eating disorder:

• Set aside a time to talk to the person in a loving manner in a private and supportive environment
• Explain to the person that you are worried about their health and that you have noticed changes in him or her that concern you.  Be specific.
• Do not use words that would define a person’s physical appearance.  Stay away from words such as, “thin”, skinny”, “sickly”, “fat”, “fluffy”, “big” or any reference to certain body parts.  Instead say, “I am afraid you are not eating in a healthy manner and that you may be doing permanent damage to your body.  What can I do to help you?” Or, “While it may seem fine to you, to me it appears you are out of control and I am worried about you.”
• Use “I” statements.  Ex: “I am worried about your skipping meals” instead of, “You missed supper” and “You have to eat.”
• Allow the person to respond to your comments and let them know that you are there to support them in any manner.
• Suggest that this person visit a physician and offer to make the appointment as well as accompany them.
• Suggest visits with a therapist and possibly explore the idea of a treatment center or program.
• Do not be their food police or exercise monitors.  This is not really about food and fitness.  They need help with their feelings.
• If the person does not respond, denies the problem, or refuses to seek help, go by yourself to get advice from a professional on what to do next.  DO NOT WAIT!!!  The possible consequences are too serious.

TREATMENT CENTERS

Center for Eating Disorders at Focus Healthcare of Tennessee
Residential inpatient facility
7429 Shallowford Road, Chattanooga TN 37421
www.focuscenterforeatingdisorders.com
800-675-2041

Solace- A center for the treatment of eating disorders
Intensive Outpatient Services
3085 South Broad Street , Suite J
423-752-5299
www.solaceeatingdisordersclinic.com
Jan Sherbak, Psy.D.- Program Director