How to Help a Teen Through an Eating Disorder
- 1). Find out all you can about the eating disorder. You can find out more information about eating disorders by visiting health and medical websites on the Internet (see Resources below). You can also obtain additional information on eating disorders by visiting your local library or a health/medical facility in your area.
- 2). Provide the teen with emotional support. It is important to let the teen know that you are there for her and that she can talk to you anytime about her feelings and concerns. Maybe there is a specific reason that is causing the eating disorder, such as stress, low self-esteem or depression. Or perhaps the teen feels that she is overweight and unattractive. Try to encourage her to open up and talk to you about the eating disorder. Also, try to be patient, compassionate and understanding with the teen and give her all of the support that she needs.
- 3). Talk to the teen about developing healthy eating habits. Unhealthy eating habits can be very dangerous and life-threatening for teens. So, try to sit down with him and discuss ways in which he can improve his eating habits. Also, try to make healthy and appropriate food suggestions for him to follow and encourage him to eat nutritional and well-balanced meals.
- 4). Purchase motivational materials for the teen. Try to find resources that are uplifting and encouraging for her, like self-help and inspirational books, videos and magazines. These types of materials can be very helpful and perhaps can boost the teen’s self-esteem level and make her feel good about herself.
- 5). Locate an appropriate mental health professional to assist the teen. A mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, can help the teen overcome his eating disorder. Be sure to verify that the therapist/counselor has the proper credentials, training and experience with helping teens through an eating disorder. The therapist/counselor can also talk to you about various things that you can do to better help the teen through an eating disorder.
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