ROLE OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Professor Crisp described Anorexia as a 'family disease'. When an eating disorder of any type becomes part of an individuals life, it can also has a massive impact on the rest of those caring for the individual. Anger, guilt, fear are to name but a few typical emotions that are felt as you try to do your best in order to support someone with an eating disorder.

If you are providing support for someone you care for ( for example a sister, husband, daughter, school friend), you would benefit by exploring ways of taking care of yourself too!                                                                                                                                                                      The Eating Disorders Network are here to help guide you through this difficult time and we can also recomend specific literature, support groups available and / or any other resources that would suit your specific need.

Click on Information to download our QUESTIONNAIRE FOR CARERS to see how well you are taking care of yourself.

FACT Eating disorders can put tremendous demands on the coping abilities of family members and friends.

FACT Parents are the solution – not the problem.

FACT There is no real evidence that family factors are the cause. There may be some genetic risk but this is not something over which a family member has any control.

FACT Guilt and self blame are futile and inappropriate

FACT The outcome of an eating disorder is influenced by the emotional reactions of close others which can act as maintaining factors.

OTHER DOWNLOADS YOU MAY FIND USEFUL IN OUR INFORMATION SECTION:

• What type of carer are you?   
• Fostering Positive Body Image