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Anorexia: Help for Family Members

Topic Overview

One person's struggle with anorexia nervosa affects the entire family. Counseling can be a big help to everyone in your family, whether it means seeing a counselor alone, as a couple, or as a family. Each family member may need reassurance or counseling at different times during the course of the illness. Seek the support you need during this time from all available resources.

  • Use a professional counselor to help you work through your concerns and reduce the eating disorder's impact on you and your family.
  • Make time for other children in your family to receive one-on-one love and attention.
  • Use a family therapist to help your family members find new ways to support one another.
  • Use a family therapist to find new ways to support your loved one's eating disorder recovery. For example, a person who has anorexia is likely to do better in an organized environment that is free from chaos and emotional outbursts.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer W. Stewart Agras, MD, FRCPC - Psychiatry
Last Revised August 25, 2011

Last Revised: August 25, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & W. Stewart Agras, MD, FRCPC - Psychiatry

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