Posted by zazenducky on November 25, 2006, at 8:51:04
In reply to Please keep it civil, everyone, posted by gardenergirl on November 24, 2006, at 12:30:09
http://www.mirror-mirror.org/applove.htm
Too many people believe that eating disorders are only about food and weight issues, when in reality, those are just the symptoms of underlying problems. Below is a list of some things to keep in mind when approaching someone.
Avoid talking about food and weight, those are not the real issues
Assure them that they are not alone and that you love them and want to help in any way that you can
Encourage them to seek help
Do not comment on their weight or appearanceDo not blame the individual and do not get angry with them
Be patient, recovery takes time
Listen to them, do not be quick to give opinions and advice
Do not take on the role of a therapist
You must also be careful with the remarks you make to the person suffering. Below is a list of a few remarks that should never be made because they will usually only drive the person away or cause them more inner pain and guilt.
"Why are you doing this to me?" We aren't doing this to you, we are doing this to ourselves. A comment like that would only cause us more guilt and make us feel worse about ourselves.
"You're just doing this for attention." We do not do this for attention. Most people with eating disorders would be happy to just keep it a secret from everyone. People with eating disorders are in a lot of emotional pain and this is their way of dealing with it. They need to be encourage to seek help, they do not need to be told they are only doing it for attention
poster:zazenducky
thread:703525
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/eating/20061124/msgs/707012.html