Talking to Eating Disorders: Simple Ways to Support Someone with Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, or Body Image Issues

by Jeanne Albronda Heaton, Claudia J. Strauss

When a friend or family member shows signs of an eating disorder, the first impulse is to charge in, give advice, and fix what is wrong. But these tactics-however well-intentioned-can backfire.

This compassionate guide offers ways to tackle the tough topics of body image, media messages, physical touch, diets, and exercise-along with a special section on talking about these issues with children. It includes information about when to get professional help, how to handle emergencies, and answers to difficult questions such as "Am I too fat?" or "Is this ok to eat?"

Genres: Mental Health

240 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2005

Reviews

[Peyton Bridges · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another good book, definitely more educational than the last one, so it was fun to have a contrast between anecdotal and clinical writing.

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple, yet sound advice

Great advice for what to say to help anyone close to you who might be struggling with an eating disorder. Recommend to friends or family members who just don't know what to say or how to say it.

[Dennis Wilkinson · Rating 1 out of 5]

The least compelling of the four books I read on this issue.

It supports a philosophy of gentle support, not direct intervention.

All I know is that if I had listened to this book, my daughter would be dead by now.

[DC · Rating 3 out of 5]

Somewhat helpful, but also feels a bit dated.

[Drew Richards · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fantastic all-encompassing book on how to recognize and discuss eating habits, and body image issues in a healthy, positive way with others as well as ourselves. Written at a level that can be digested by people who do this for a living as well as people who do not. Could be shortened but overall a decent length book.

[Jared · Rating 4 out of 5]

I especially enjoyed the section at the end where it gives you situations of what a person with an ED may say to you and how to reply. There is a lot of information out there about coping with ED's but very little information for those who have been in a place of helping others through the process. I recomend this book to my clients who are the partners and family members of those whose lives have been effected by someone who has ED and just does not know what to do.