Lately, more than ever, I’ve been getting questions like, “How do I tell someone I have an eating disorder?” Ironically, just by asking me that, you’ve already found the courage to tell someone—me! I recognize that it’s often easier to confide in a stranger like me, and I’m always here to help. However, talking with a supportive person in your life, such as a parent, friend, or significant other, can be incredibly helpful in beginning your journey to recovery.
Finding the Right Person to Confide In
Choosing whom to tell is a personal decision that depends on your relationships and comfort level. Think about who you feel most comfortable with—someone trustworthy, empathetic, and supportive. It might be someone you’ve shared feelings with before or someone who has confided in you. Selecting a person who makes you feel safe can make the conversation less daunting and more productive.
Once you’ve decided on someone, consider how you might tell them in a way that feels right for you. Some people like to plan out their conversations to help manage anxiety. If this sounds like you, writing a letter where you thoughtfully express your feelings ahead of time and then reading it aloud might be helpful. Others prefer to speak spontaneously in the moment. There’s no right or wrong way—you have to decide what works best for you.
Reflect on what’s most important to communicate. Think about how you’re feeling, how this has influenced your eating, how long you’ve been experiencing these feelings, and how they can best support you. Being honest and clear can foster understanding and help the other person know how to support you effectively.
Starting the conversation can feel intimidating, and feeling vulnerable is okay. You might say something like:
“I’ve been struggling with my eating habits, and it’s affecting me physically and emotionally. I think I have an eating disorder, and I wanted to tell you because I trust you and need your support.”
Sharing your feelings can bring a sense of relief and open the door to getting the help you need.
Preparing for Their Reaction
How the person reacts can significantly affect how you perceive the situation. Their support can be extremely helpful, encouraging your need for treatment. However, if their reaction is less understanding, it might be hurtful. No matter what, always remember that it is not your fault. You might experience doubts like, “Did I overthink this?” or “Am I just being dramatic?” The answer is always no. Trust your instincts, no matter how someone reacts to your feelings.
Learning more about eating disorders can better prepare you and the person you’re confiding in. Consider taking an eating disorder self-assessment, reading up on FAQs, and understanding treatment options. This knowledge can empower both you and your support system, making the path forward clearer.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re struggling with an eating disorder, know that you’re not alone. We’re dedicated to helping individuals navigate these challenges. Our compassionate team offers personalized treatment plans designed to support you on your path to healing. Taking the first step can be daunting, but reaching out for help is a courageous act of self-respect. We encourage you to contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you. Call us at 855-245-0961 or fill out our online form. We’re here to provide the support and resources you need to heal and develop a healthier relationship with yourself.
What Happens After You Tell Someone
Once the conversation is out in the open, it’s normal for things to feel a little different for a while, even if it went well. Give both yourself and the other person some time to adjust. If you told a parent or partner, it can help to talk together about what kind of support actually feels useful day to day, rather than assuming they’ll know. Many families find bringing loved ones into a few therapy sessions makes it easier to stay on the same page going forward, especially in the early weeks after a disclosure. And if you’re the one being told, know that there are concrete ways to be helpful without taking over or walking on eggshells.
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Related Reading
- How to Use FMLA for Eating Disorder Treatment at Eating Disorder Solutions (EDS)
- Emotional Eating vs. Binge Eating Disorder: Understanding the Difference
- How to Help Someone with Binge Eating Disorder
- Can Picky Eating Be an Eating Disorder?
References
National Alliance for Eating Disorders (https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/)
ANAD — Free Eating Disorder Peer Support & Resources (https://anad.org/)
