An individual suffering from an eating disorder is less likely to discuss their condition. Eating disorders, being a type of mental illness, are a hard nut to crack. While it may seem simple, it can turn out to be a nightmare for the people around. Sometimes, the victims are in denial and will refuse to get the required help.

Eating disorder symptoms are often unknown to most, and it may take a while before somebody learns of its existence. The symptoms may be coupled with other underlying conditions, like depression and stress, which will make it more complex. However, utmost patience while dealing with the disorder can help the victim.

• Empathize
  Family and friends should empathize with the person undergoing this condition. Many often do not understand their illness and refrain from answering questions. Understanding the mental state of the person before stepping to help him/her is essential. If the eating disorder has progressed, leaving the person malnourished, it will be a precarious situation. The person may view the world around him/her differently. They may have a distorted view of themselves and their surroundings.
• Choose the right time
  Talking about a person’s condition around the clock may not be the wisest thing. Since it is a personal subject, it should be discussed in private. The person should be calm enough to respond to the questions. It is not easy to get them to yield to discussions. The conversation should be held without any disturbances so that there is a logical flow.
• Express how much you care
  The person suffering from this condition should be made aware of how much he/she is cared for. They should find it easy to confide in the caregiver. Lecturing on the issue will do more harm than good. Hence, a good listener can bring about the change needed. Only when they are heard well, they may be ready to hear others. Words of support will do good. The patient should know that their family is there for them at all times. Making them understand that they are important, will help them feel loved and confident in themselves.
• Resistance may be expected
  It is more likely that the person affected by an eating disorder will put up resistance for any help offered. The resistance stems from the attitude of constant denial. The patient may also turn hostile. This behavior may be annoying. However, the caregiver should not give up on the efforts to bring a turnaround.

Trying to help an individual with eating disorders may be a testing period. However, one should not forget that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Care should be taken to not hurt anyone’s feelings. They should not be blamed or shamed as it will impact them negatively. Additionally, criticizing their appearance might make matters worse.