Worried that a friend might have an eating disorder? Here’s some advice.
Friends share a lot; clothes, food, gossip, and often, secrets. A good friend knows how to keep things in confidence, even if they find out about an untold secret. However, there are some secrets that shouldn’t remain hidden. And despite making promises in the moment about keeping it to one’s self, there can be a nagging feeling inside that maybe being a good friend means getting help.
Do you have a friend who seems to be changing in ways that are causing concern? They might be losing weight very quickly, obsessed with what they eat and exercising way too much. Or they could be hiding food, spending a lot of time in the bathroom, and always talking about how fat they feel. These are signs that your friend might need to see an eating disorder therapist in Haverford.
Advice From an Eating Disorder Therapist in Haverford
Realizing that someone you care about could be exhibiting signs of an eating disorder is a scary thing. Not knowing what to do about it makes it even more frightening. It is important to educate yourself before trying to talk to your friend about it. Here are some helpful tips from an eating disorder therapist in Haverford.
- Learn about it – There are different kinds of eating disorders. Do some reading about anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating. Knowing a bit more about these disorders can dispel any myths you might unknowingly believe. It will also give you better language to use when you approach your friend.
- Let someone know – If your friend is under 18, it is important that a trusted adult be told about your concerns. Communicating with your friend’s parents, a teacher, or even a school guidance counselor can offer much-needed support to both you and your friend. If they are over 18, it’s still wise to get others who care about your friend involved. Don’t try this one alone.
- Pay attention to tone – When you do talk to your friend, try talking to them in a calm, non-judgemental manner. People suffering from eating disorders already feel massive amounts of shame and can feel like they are being attacked when approached about their eating habits.
- Be patient – Someone suffering from an eating disorder may not want to admit to what they’ve been doing. They may even deny that anything is wrong and try to avoid you. It can take some time for a person to admit that they have a problem and need help. Adjusting your expectations about immediacy will help you be there for the long haul.
- Look for an “eating disorder therapist near me” – Friends and family cannot take the place of a trained therapist. Be there for your friend, encourage them to talk to you about their feelings, but also make sure you are encouraging them to get professional help. Seeking an eating disorder therapist in Haverford is the best way to be the friend you want to be.
Consulting an Eating Disorder Therapist in Haverford
When looking for treatment for eating disorders, it is essential that you and/or your friend find a therapist who has experience. Just like doctors, therapists have specialties and only treat certain disorders.
An eating disorder therapist in Havertown will usually have their therapeutic focus listed on their website. A therapist who treats clients with eating disorders will also treat the underlying issues that come along with the disorders. This often includes anxiety, depression, and even panic disorders.
Our therapists at Live Well Therapy Associates, LLC offer over 30 years of combined experience in counseling clients who suffer from eating disorders. Because of this experience, we recognize the warning signs exhibited by people with undiagnosed eating disorders. We know how to effectively treat both the main disorder and any other psychological issues that may come up in our time with the client.
Using evidenced-based therapeutic models such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), our therapists teach our clients the importance of thought patterns and how they affect the rest of their lives. We offer healthy coping skills and ways of dealing with any issues you or your friend might face without the need for misusing food.
Make a Live-Saving Appointment
If you, a friend, or a family member are suffering from an eating disorder, we want you to know that you don’t have to do this alone. At Live Well Therapy Associates, LLC we offer individual therapy sessions and family sessions so that everyone involved can have the support they need.
Please take advantage of our free 15-minute consultation today by calling us at 267-908-0974. We can get you acquainted with one of our therapists and give you an idea of what our treatment for eating disorders will look like. You can also contact us by email at moc.s1733249412etaic1733249412ossal1733249412lewev1733249412il@of1733249412ni1733249412 .