What can parents do about eating disorders?
agree with the family that none of you will talk about portion sizes, calories or anything else about the meal. avoid eating low-calorie or diet foods in front of them or having them in the house. try to keep things lighthearted and positive throughout the meal, even if you do not feel that way on the inside.
How do you help someone who doesn’t eat?
Dos and don’ts
- Do encourage your friend or family member to seek professional help.
- Don’t be critical of someone’s appearance.
- Do show compassion and care, and listen to them non-judgmentally.
- Don’t get frustrated or annoyed by the person’s eating habits or try to force them to eat.
How can I Help my Child with an eating disorder?
In these talks, parents should be specific about the next step, such as finding a therapist or being evaluated by an eating disorder specialist. Stay involved in a child’s treatment, such as by attending appointments. This can allow parents to support their child and provide insight or advocacy in the treatment setting.
Should parents blame themselves for their child’s eating disorder?
Parents should not blame themselves for the development of a child’s eating disorder. While researchers do not yet know why some people develop eating disorders, we do know that such disorders have a strong biological component, and that social and environmental factors contribute to the picture.
How do I find a treatment center for an eating disorder?
Find a treatment center or an eating disorder specialist who takes your insurance in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory. Referrals from doctors or friends can also be helpful in this process. Parents will want to research a clinic or therapist beforehand.
Is it normal to eat in secret for years?
It’s this emotional aspect that experts are most concerned about. While the occasional bout of secret eating is totally normal, Welch says that if you find yourself frequently eating in secret, it can be a sign of a larger issue. It can lead to binge eating, purging, and other disordered eating behaviors.