Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can be life-threatening. Eating disorders include anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder (BED). They’re characterized by excessive dieting, food restriction, or purging behaviors such as vomiting or taking laxatives to control weight. One of the most common causes is related to body image and self-esteem issues. Still, they can also stem from other sources of stress, including trauma and anxiety. Eating disorders usually start in adolescence and early adulthood, with psychiatric symptoms before age 25 being rarer than after this period. Suppose you think someone you care about may have an eating disorder. In that case, there are things you can do to help them get treatment without feeling like it’s interfering with their own agency (self-determination).

If you suspect someone you care about may be struggling with an eating disorder, there are some things you can do to help them get treatment. If they have bulimia nervosa, you can suggest making a bulimia recovery plan with a doctor’s help. To avoid overstepping your boundaries or inserting yourself too deeply into your loved one’s affairs, it’s important to remember that they have the right to make decisions for themselves and take actions regarding their personal life without needing a guardian. It’s also important not to judge a family member suffering from an eating disorder. They likely don’t want others to judge them either.

The following are some ideas for you to consider when encouraging a loved one to get treatment:

1. Realize you can’t force someone into treatment

No matter how much you care, you cannot force an eating disorder to go to therapy or enter treatment. However, certain factors make it more likely for your loved one to be open to the idea of help, including if they feel like they have no other choice because of their illness. If you sense your loved one is ready for help but is not opening up, then gently ask them why they don’t want to talk about seeking professional assistance yet or what is holding them back.

2. Be understanding and supportive

People suffering from eating disorders sometimes find it challenging to reach out for help due to shame which often goes hand in hand with mental health issues. As a loved one attempting to get assistance, you need to be understanding and show your support. Think of ways to encourage them without forcing the issue if they seem reluctant. For instance, it may help to point out that eating disorders are serious mental health conditions requiring professional attention since they are not just about food or weight concerns but rather stem from other issues, such as trauma or anxiety.

3. Remember there’s no one-size-fits-all approach

There is no standardized way of intervening, so think of different approaches based on your particular circumstances. Your loved one may have specific triggers or sensitivities so avoid focusing on their weight or appearance while encouraging them to seek treatment. Avoid being judgmental as well. Try to understand your loved one’s perspective, which can help you encourage them to be sensitive to their situation.

4. Get the facts about eating disorders

The following are some crucial facts about eating disorders that can help you support someone with an eating disorder:

5. Help your loved one find a qualified eating disorder treatment program

If your loved one is open to the idea of getting help, then you can assist them in finding an eating disorder treatment center near them. To do this, it might be advisable to get advice from a professional such as a licensed therapist or counselor who specializes in eating disorders. There are also support groups where family members and friends of people suffering from eating disorders can connect with others going through similar situations and share experiences regarding how they encourage their loved ones to seek treatment.

6. Be supportive after rehab

Your loved one’s recovery needs time and effort so remain supportive even after receiving therapy for their eating disorder. You must offer encouragement while being understanding of the challenges faced by your loved ones throughout their journey to full recovery.

You can best support your loved ones by encouraging them to get treatment for their eating disorder without judging, pressuring, or forcing the issue. Remember that no single approach works for everyone as each individual has their own preferences, and you should also consider your specific circumstances. In addition, it is crucial to have the facts about eating disorders to understand better what your loved one is going through. If your loved one is open to treatment, you can help them find a program near you.