Alester Brown

What Not to Say to Someone Struggling with an Eating Disorder

Eating disorders are widely misunderstood and more complex than people realize. The umbrella term "eating disorder" refers to many conditions affecting a person's relationship with food. Bulimia and anorexia are the most well-known conditions, but there are many more that people can experience.

If you have someone in your life getting help for anorexia or struggling to cope with an eating disorder, you must understand that it's not your job to "fix" them. Providing your support is crucial, but even the most well-intentioned person can accidentally say something that sets progress back. If you are looking for help for anorexia, visit this website.

To help you avoid making those missteps, here are a few things you need to avoid saying to someone with an eating disorder.

"You look great! You aren't fat at all!

This is a gut reaction many people have when confronted with the reality of an eating disorder. Many folks are inclined to look at someone's body and figure out their way of thinking. But you must remember that people suffering from these conditions often have a distorted view of their bodies.

Saying someone looks great might seem like a positive statement. But it perpetuates a few unhealthy thought patterns. Saying that a person trying to get help for anorexia isn't fat only cements the belief that fat is bad.

Avoid statements like this entirely.

"You're so skinny! Go eat something and get some meat on those bones!"

Unfortunately, these statements are commonly heard by people suffering from anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders. Again, a seemingly innocent and somewhat playful phrase has dangerous connotations.

These comments only validate the extremes they go through to look like they do. It reinforces their unhealthy thoughts and may push them to continue their dangerous habits.

"That's so much food on your plate!"

Eating disorders aren't just about body image. They often create unhealthy relationships with food. Commenting on how much or how little someone is eating makes them self-conscious about their choices.

It reaffirms their fears and can set their progress back.

Author Resource:-

Alester Brown writes about mental and physical health. She advises people on Paediatrician & online Psychiatrist consultation. You can find her thoughts at therapist for anxiety blog.