What can I do to help someone with disordered eating?

To help someone with disordered eating, it is important to:

• Listen non-judgmentally: Offer support and a safe space for them to express their feelings and thoughts.
• Be patient: The process of overcoming disordered eating can be slow and difficult, so be patient and understanding.
• Encourage professional help: Encourage them to seek treatment from a mental health professional with experience in eating disorders.
• Educate yourself: Learn about disordered eating and understand the impact it can have on a person’s life.
• Avoid triggering comments or actions: Avoid making comments about their appearance, weight, or food choice, such as ‘body talk’. Avoid giving advice based on your personal story as for some young people this can feel invalidating to their personal struggle, instead recognise that they are struggling and that you are there to support. 
• Offer alternative activities: Suggest activities that do not revolve around food or body image, such as new hobbies e.g. art, craft, visiting museum, music .
• Lead by example: Model healthy attitudes towards food, exercise, and body image.

Remember, disordered eating is a complex issue and can be difficult to overcome without professional help. Encouraging someone to seek treatment from a mental health professional is one of the most supportive things you can do.