Getting Help: Treatment Methods

It can be very hard to confront someone/yourself about an eating problem. Many eating disorder patients express denial and insist that they know what they are doing and do not want help. It will be difficult, but here are some ideas to remember:

• approach your friend one on one in a private place
• talk about what you have observed in a non-confrontational, caring and non-judgmental manner
• most importantly, direct the person to HELP
  • Eating disorders are not just a “fad” or “phase,” they are serious, life-threatening illnesses that can deeply affect a person’s emotional and physical health
• DON'T expect yourself to “cure” your friend or “make them understand"
  • It takes psychotherapy and the help of a trained professional to lead someone down the path of healthy eating and attitudes towards food
• DO be a source of encouragement, understanding and support
  • The earlier a person seeks treatment, the higher chance they have of full physical and emotional recovery

More information about different treatment methods