Information for Family and Friends

There are a variety of things you can do to help a friend, family member or loved one:

• Learn as much as you can about eating disorders: sincere mindfulness undermines judgemental or mistaken attitudes about food, body shape and eating disorders.
• Learn about the dangers of dieting, the importance of eating a variety of foods, and enjoying moderate exercise to feel healthy and strong.
• Avoid overemphasizing a person's beauty, size and shape.
• Accept and embrace the indivudual for who they are and don't endorse the idea that a particular diet, weight or body size will automatically lead to happiness or fulfillment.
• Talk to others about the natural differences in body types and that each one is okay, and discuss the body's powerful attempts to maintain these naturally varied shapes and sizes.
• Encourage and implement positive comments about your body and other's bodies. Be a good role model in your approaches about weight concern, food and body image. Keep in mind that your comments - both positive and negative - can influence others.
• Reflect and be conscious of the way your beliefs and attitudes about your and others' bodies are influenced by our societal expectations.
• Practice self-care by getting plenty of rest, maintaining healthy nutrition and endorsing an active lifestyle.
• Enjoy the time you spend with loved ones and appreciate those who care about you.
• If you're having troubles, consider talking to an intake staff member at the "HOPE" program about your worries.