Carers

A person who supports and/or looks after a family member, partner or friend in need of help because they are ill. The care they provide is unpaid.

(Scottish Mental Health and Well Being Group definition)

Caring for someone with an eating disorder can be very stressful. At Syeda we understand what you are going through and can help you develop coping strategies.
A distressed carer is a less effective carer. Through support and skills training we can help you to be a more effective carer and also to take good care of yourself.

For someone to recover from an eating disorder, they have to want to. However much you love them, you can’t do it for them. What you can do is encourage and support them to be more motivated. This can make a real difference to their recovery.
Try not to blame the person or be judgmental. Tell them you’re concerned and want to help, though be clear about what behavior you won’t tolerate.
Know that recovery isn’t easy and will take time.
Praise any positive efforts.
Avoid comments about appearance.
Keep telling the person how much you value them.
Instead of soul-searching for the reasons behind the eating disorder, try to plan what to do next.
Find out the government guidelines on what treatment should be offered people with eating disorders: http://www.nice.org.uk/search/guidancesearchresults.jsp?keywords=eating+disorders&searchSite=on&searchType=All&newSearch=1

Skills Based Learning for Caring for a Loved One with an Eating Disorder. The New Maudsley Method by Janet Treasure, Grainné Smith & Anna Crane
Help Your Teenager Beat an Eating Disorder, by James Lock and Daniel Le Grange
Eating Disorders: Helping Your Child Recover ed. Steve Bloomfield, published by the Eating Disorders Association (www.edauk.com).