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Anorexia is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder.
Anorexia is characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss.
People with anorexia typically have a distortedbody imageand see themselves as overweight.
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If you know someone with anorexia, you may be wondering how you could help.
Millions of Americans are affected by this disease.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you care for someone with anorexia.
Anorexia symptoms can be physical, mental, and emotional.
Eating disorders are serious medical conditions that require treatment.
Anorexia can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Medical Care
Medical caregiving for anorexia might include monitoring weight and vital signs.
In addition, you may need to provide support during medical appointments andtreatments.
A person with anorexia may need help preparingmeals that are nutritious and calorie-dense.
You may also need to provide transportation to medical appointments.
Emotional Care
Emotional caregiving for someone with anorexia can be challenging.
It is important to provide support and understanding.
You may also need to help your loved one cope with the emotions associated with anorexia.
For example, you may need to help them cope with body image issues,anxiety, and depression.
Below are five specific things it’s possible for you to do to provide emotional care.
Listen without judgment
A person with anorexia may feel ashamed and embarrassed about their disease.
It is important to listen without judgment.
Show your support by letting them know that you are there for them.
Encourage positive self-talk and healthy coping mechanisms
Anorexia can cause negative self-talk.
It is important to encouragepositive self-talkand healthy coping mechanisms.
One way to do this is to model healthy coping mechanisms yourself.
For example, if you are feeling stressed,take a deep breathand count to 10.
This will show your loved one that it is OK to take care of oneself.
Be patient and understanding
Recovery from anorexia can be a long and difficult process.
It is important to be patient and understanding.
There will be good days and bad days.
The most important thing you’re free to do is to provide support and love.
Offer hope
It is important to offer hope.Recovery from anorexiais possible.
There are many success stories.
Remind your loved ones that they are not alone and that help is available.
As a caregiver, it is important to avoid adding to this.
Avoid talking about food all the time
A person with anorexia is likely already preoccupied with food.
Talking about food all the time will only make things worse and maybe be triggering.
Beingoverbearingmay strain the relationship.
For example, you might make excuses for why your loved one didnt eat dinner.
This will only prolong the disorder and prevent recovery.
This can be difficult, but it is important to communicate your concerns in a clear and concise way.
It is important to avoid adding to this by usingjudgmental language.
Be open to listening
Your loved one might want to talk about their experiences with anorexia.
It is important to be open tolistening without judgingor offering advice.
Offer to go to doctors appointments ortherapy sessionswith them.
Let them know that you are available to talk anytime.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Tips for Yourself as a Caregiver
Self-care is important for caregivers.
Below are some tips for taking care of yourself while caring for a loved one with anorexia.
ensure to take breaks
Caring for a loved one with anorexia can be emotionally and mentally draining.
It is important to take breaks when you need them.
This might meantaking a walk, reading a book, or spending time with friends.
Seek professional help
If you are struggling to cope, it is important toseek professional help.
This might mean seeing a therapist or joining a support group.
This includes eating a healthy diet, exercising, andgetting enough sleep.
Set boundaries
It is important toset boundarieswith your loved one.
This might mean setting limits on how much you are willing to help or setting aside time for yourself.
Seek support from others
Caring for a loved one with anorexia can be a lonely experience.
It is important to seeksupportfrom other caregivers or from a support group.
Frequently Asked Questions
A caregiver is someone who provides care and support for another person.
This might include helping with activities of daily living, providing emotional support, or coordinating medical care.
Some ways to support a loved one with anorexia include being patient, understanding, and supportive.
It is also important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally.
You might also want to consider seeking professional help.
A Word From Verywell
Caregiving for someone with anorexia can be a challenging experience.
However, it is important to remember that you are not alone.
Support groups and therapy can be a great resource for both caregivers and people with anorexia.
2021;34(6):515-524. doi:10.1097/YCO.0000000000000739
National Institute of Mental Health.Eating Disorders.
