February 1 – 7 is Eating Disorders Awareness Week in Canada. In a world overloaded with information, there is plenty of misinformation and assumptions surrounding eating disorders. Culturally, we hold a very narrow perspective of what eating disorders are, who they affect and the gravity of their impact. The reality is eating disorders are complex and impact people of all genders, ages, abilities, races, ethnicities, body shapes and socioeconomic statuses. A large percentage of the women I work with are aged thirty and above. Many have struggled for years, unsure of what to do or convinced their struggle is not “that bad,” they have resisted finding support. This is part of my story – I was not diagnosed with an eating disorder until I was 37 but had struggled with food and body image for more than twenty years prior to that.
If someone you know and love has been diagnosed with an eating disorder and you find yourself wondering what to do or say – please know you are not alone! Here are two thoughtful ways to love and support those with an eating disorder.
- Educate Yourself About Eating Disorders
Understanding what your loved one is going through can help you respond with empathy. Learn about the physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects of eating disorders. - Listen Without Judgment
Create a safe space for them to talk—be available! Avoid making comments about their behaviour, body, or eating habits. Simply listen (without judgment or well-intentioned suggestions) and demonstrate that you care by being present.
If you want to learn more, click here to request more helpful ways to love and support those with eating disorders. In the optional message section, type “Support For Loved Ones.”
New This Year – Space For Grace is offering personal coaching sessions for caregivers and loved ones of those with eating disorders. Wondering if this is for you? Have questions? Send an email to info@space4grace.ca or click here to book a free consultation.
Whether you are struggling with food and body image issues or are caring for someone who’s been diagnosed with an eating disorder, please know there is hope. You may feel overwhelmed in every way. Take it from someone who’s been there, recovery is possible. Please don’t give up hope; the first call or message sent is the hardest (I still remember mine!), but looking back, it was the start of a journey toward genuine freedom and authenticity! I wouldn’t trade this new perspective and the true joy I have found for anything!
If you want to learn more about eating disorders or if you or someone you love is struggling to any degree with food and body image, I would be honoured to connect with you. I provide personalized coaching sessions to help my clients overcome their struggles with food and body image and live a life free of fear, anxiety, and shame. Contact me today to book a free consultation. Check out my website https://www.space4grace.ca/ to learn more about the services I offer.