Anorexia is a serious disease. A person having this disorder suffers from many mental and physical problems. He is also very afraid and embarrassed to seek help of others. Many-a-times the person suffering from anorexia denies that he has a problem. He simply has some vague body image in his mind and works hard to achieve that image.
If such a person happens to be your family member or a friend then what you would do? You are terrified at this thought. Isn’t it? Read on to know what all you can do to support such a person.
Instructions:
- First learn about signs and symptoms of anorexia. Identify them properly. Please refer to a related article on signs and symptoms of anorexia in this site.
- Be careful not to overgeneralize the symptoms. Do not make any assumptions or categorize the person. Be aware that anorexia can be life-threatening condition and it is not just a phase of life.
- Anorexics generally do not address their problems until the symptoms are really severe. You cannot force someone to address the problem unless he is ready to do it himself. So be patient and support him till he reveals his problem.
- Listen to all his concerns carefully with respect and sensitivity. Be persistent in your approach. Be firm but see that he should feel your kindness in it.
- Another way of approaching an anorexic is as a team. He cannot be dealt by just one person. There will be profound effect on him if there is group of people who extend support and care for him.
- You should be well aware of all that is needed to treat anorexic person. An anorexic needs a therapist, doctor and a nutritional professional. He also needs the facility for inpatient rehabilitation. It is very difficult to treat anorexic on outpatient basis.
- Do a research and seek for a suitable professional support for anorexic. Many hospitals, doctors and support groups are available today for treating anorexia.
- Finally let the anorexic get proper treatment to get well.
