ED Q&A: How Have You Been Supported?

We recently asked people in recovery from an eating disorder to share their thoughts about the illness. We hope these insights from those who have “been there” help if you’re seeking answers and understanding. A big thanks to everyone who contributed to this post and to all the supportive friends and family out there.

These are personal perspectives; everyone will have unique experiences on their own path to recovery and beyond. Some stories may mention eating disorder thoughts, behaviors, or symptom use. Please use your own discretion. And speak with your therapist when needed.

Today’s question: What is the best thing someone has done to support you?

My parents went to a Friends & Family informational meeting without me having to ask them. When I saw the papers they’d received on the table later, I felt so loved and supported.
-Alisha

Provided me a positive escape to refocus my thoughts. In my case it was horses.
-David

Realized how hard it is.
-Jodi

Let me know I was loved no matter what, even when I was pretty unlovable and not fun to be around. Also, they learned about eating disorders and came to family and friends support nights.
-Taylor

Said, “I’m here for you. How can I help?”
-Kristine

Cared about my life when I didn’t.
-Liza

Noticed the signs of me suffering.
-Amanda

Directed me to The Emily Program to learn, understand, and start treatment for BED.
-Rachelle

I think the best thing people have done to support me during my recovery was validating my feelings and not making me feel like I’m crazy. I may have anxiety over a food item, and instead of judging me for it, they recognized how real of a feeling it is for me, and are there to support me through either that meal or telling me it’s okay not to challenge something at this moment.
-Anonymous

Not talking about weight or food.
-Adriana

Attended therapy sessions and became informed about eating disorders (reading books, recovery stories, support groups).
-Mady

Simply put, just being there for me. Knowing when I was at my weakest point and being there for me.
-Dani

My sister wrote a very heartfelt piece about my ED. My brother sent me a very encouraging text each time I was discharged prematurely from treatment. I often remember his words, “make ED your bitch.”
-Brooke

Crossed off food labels of everything in the house. It showed they cared.
-Allyson

Offered to listen when I just needed an ear. My thinking was often irrational, and I sometimes just needed to say things out loud.
-Susie

Complimented me on anything but my body. “You look happy!” or “You look confident!” feels way better than “look how skinny you are!”
-Allie

Listen, acknowledge my feelings, and hold me accountable.
-Erica

The best support I’ve received is from people who simply let me know that they are there for me: there to listen to my struggles and triumphs and to love me through the process.
-Lauren

Prayer.
-Glenda

Literally asking, “Is there anything I can do for you right now?”
-Katie

My boyfriend would just hold me after a rough therapy session and let me cry it all out. It was really helpful and cathartic.
-Nicole

Listened to me, instead of trying to fix me, because I’m not broken.
-Candice

Tough love. They didn’t coddle or sugar coat things.
-Hannah

Written words of encouragement and consistently spent time with me doing things outside of treatment.
-Molly

Accepting me for who I am unconditionally. And not assuming I’m doing great just because I’m weight restored.
-Allana

Patience.
-Calli