#63 - What to do if you think a loved one has an eating disorder

If you believe someone you know or love might have an eating disorder, you can feel at a loss for how to help, support, or bring up the subject with them. Having entered full recovery from her eating disorder solo without intervention from healthcare professionals or a living facility, Kylie has a unique perspective on how to 1) identify patterns that may signal a problem, 2) raise the discussion with your loved one, 3) think through scenarios and plan for responsiveness and 4) approach the topic with sincerity, calm, and love.

Kylie will unveil the tips she'd encourage anyone looking to approach a loved one with in this episode, along with advice on how those in the midst of an eating disorder might be feeling mentally and physically, and why your ask to support or help could be viewed as a threat.

This is an incredibly important episode for anyone - whether you have personally gone through or experienced concern over an individual potentially going through an eating disorder.

Listen with care.

If you or anyone you know needs help, please take advantage of the following resources:

• The United Way's 211. The hotline is intended for anyone living in North America who has any type of crisis or who needs help locating specific resources, including information and referrals for eating disorder treatment. Available 24/7, it can offer information and referrals to treatment organizations in your area.
• Getting help from a team of professionals, like your doctor, a therapist and a dietician can help you understand and manage your feelings and behaviors. You can contact the National Eating Disorders Helpline at [phone] or text “NEDA” to 741741 for immediate support.
  • NEDA also provides instant messaging and texting options.
    • Call 1-800-931-2237.
    • Text “NEDA” to 741-741.