Do:
1) Let them know you are there for them and want to support them.
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2) Listen to what they are saying, but also understand if they do not want to talk.
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3) Validate and reassure them.
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4) Show you are willing to learn about what they are going through.
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5) Treat them normally.
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Don't:
1) Make any comments good or bad about their body.
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2) Act like you can fix them or know what to do.
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3) Act mortified or scared, it makes them feel guilty.
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4) Place blame.
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5) Be a food police.
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What families need to understand is that it is not their fault. They cannot fix their children and even though this disease is causing the family pain, it is even harder for the one going through it. Families must keep patience and understanding.
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11 Things I Wish My Friends and Family Understood About My Eating Disorder is a great article to help you understand and cope with eating disorders within family or friend relationships:
The Do's and Don't of what to say
