o Saying you know you could die right?Â
Of course this is known, people aren’t born under a rock and you should not guess that someone doesn’t know what an Eating Disorder can do to them. This can also be a mega trigger for some people as they may think, well it would make the pain stop so I’m in the right direction. Instead, why don’t you tell them that your there for them, and when there ready to talk, your around. Trying to Shock someone out of an Eating Disorder won’t work.Â
o Saying Just Eat,
This is a horrible thing to say to somebody, its trying to force someone way out of their comfort zone and putting pressure on them. It makes them feel that everyone is aware of their situation and all eyes are on them. This is the complete opposite of what they will want, I don’t want the attention. They are not attention Seeking, which is also something you should never say.Â
o Stop asking if they want any food,
Just because someone has an Eating Disorder, it doesn’t mean they never eat. They may say no most of the time, but still offer. Firstly it shows that you are still including them and their Eating Disorder is not the main focus. This also means that the opportunity to eat is in their hands, they can decide and will not be worrying as much if they say yes or no. Always offer once, just once. If they say no, don’t try and again and again. This person may be in recovery and recover is most successful in small steps.Â
o Are you sure you want to eat that? It’s going to make you feel worse later,Â
Never say this, if someone is going to eat something. Let them, let them eat the whole thing if they want to. Then if they feel worse later, just be a good friend. It’s like telling someone who has depression not to feel happy because they will feel sad later on and no one would ever say that. That’s how stupid this is! Instead don’t say anything, don’t even acknowledge it. I know you want to help, but sometimes people have to help themselves first.Â
Sash
xxx
