I’m Supporting a Close Friend or Family Member

Supporting someone close to you who is experiencing an eating disorder can feel consuming, frustrating, heart-breaking and isolating. Yet your role is vital. This page is intended to provide encouragement for Christian friends, family and carers of someone experiencing an eating disorder. For more general information, see ABCs of Eating Disorders and Kindly do, Kindly don’t.

Tanya’s story reflects the experiences of several Christian parents whose child has experienced an eating disorder. You might identify with her story, or aspects of your experience might be different. Either way, we hope that her story encourages you that you are not alone.

Six Common Struggles Faced by Christians Whose Family Member or Close Friend Has an Eating Disorder

Some Thoughts and Practices That You Might Find Helpful