If you suspect a loved one may be struggling with an eating disorder, figuring out what to do next can feel confusing, overwhelming, and daunting. We know because we've been there.
That's why, in honor of Mental Health Action Day, we've put together a digital toolkit that breaks down eating disorder symptoms, causes, and treatment, and provides actionable advice on how to find help for your loved one.
Lasting recovery starts with the first step. We're here to take it with you.
30 million
will never receive treatment
who do receive typical treatment will recover
of patients see positive outcomes with Family-Based Treatment
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Despite the increasing awareness, visibility, and discourse around eating disorders, societal stereotypes and preconceived notions still abound. To get a better sense of the vast array of complex and nuanced eating disorders out there, read this article.
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The myths around anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder are pervasive and persistent and they continue to detract from the reality of these illnesses: eating disorders are brain disorders.
"The number one misconception I encounter about eating disorders is they exclusively affect thin, white, upper-middle class girls and women . Eating disorders affect people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, body sizes, and socioeconomic statuses."
For all the increased awareness around eating disorders in recent years, myths about who gets them and why still abound.
Free eating disorder assessment tool
Ask your loved one if they are comfortable having a chat
Share specific observations that have you concerned
Emphasize that you are here to listen and support
Remember: approach the conversation from a place of curiosity, and avoid language that might seem critical or judgmental
Who are the eating disorder specialists recommended by your child’s primary care doctor and/or your health insurance carrier?
What kind of experience do the treatment professionals have with disorders — how long have they specialized in EDs?
What are the health impacts of the ED that need to be addressed, and what’s the best strategy for treating those?
What role will the family play in the treatment process?
Join us for our weekly Family Support Group!
Every week, Equip clinical team members will lead a candid discussion about the realities of eating disorders, common questions about treatment and recovery, and first-hand advice about recovery as a family. Learn more & register below!
I’d like to receive articles, videos and other informative resources
References
Eating Disorder Coalition For Research, Policy, & Action. (2014). Eatingdisorderscoalition.org.
Kazdin, Fitzimmons-Craft, Wilfley, A. K. E. F. C. D. W. (2017). Addressing Critical Gaps in the Treatment of Eating Disorders. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 1–35.
Accurso, Sim, Muhlheim, Lebow, E. A. L. S. L. M. J. L. (2019). Parents know best: Caregiver perspectives on eating disorder recovery. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 1.
Loeb, LeGrange, K. L. D. L. G. (2009). Family-Based Treatment for Adolescent EDs: Current Status, New Applications and Future Directions. International Journal of Child Adolescent Health, 1–13.