NourishED: what support looks like
steps you can take to support your loved ones
10/20/20251 min read
1. Not commenting on someone’s food and enjoying a meal together stress-free.
> One of the best ways to get over an ED is through positive associations. By enjoying time together without focusing on food, you can help your loved ones reconnect with eating in a positive light rather than a guilty or shameful one!
2. Educating yourself on the recovery process.
> By educating yourself, you’ll provide better support and normalize the process of recovery! When you make an effort to learn about what recovery actually involves, this shows your loved ones you care enough to understand their experience.
3. Complimenting their whole person, beyond appearance.
> EDs are often rooted in a person feeling self-conscious about their appearance. Diverting the focus from their appearance to their whole self can significantly help improve their confidence and comfort with their body and food!
4. Avoid talking about diet culture.
> Avoid discussing nutritional facts, calories, or labeling foods as “good/bad,”as this can unintentionally shame your loved ones about what they’re eating. Steering clear of these topics can help prevent potential triggers and support a healthier mindset around food. Focus less on how their body looks and more on how they feel!
5. Modeling a compassionate relationship with your own body.
> One of the best ways to support a friend recovering from an ED is by being a positive role model. Demonstrating a healthy relationship with food can create a comfortable environment and positively influence their mindset around eating!