A common misconception about eating disorders is that they are primarily or entirely about food. In truth, eating disorders aren’t really about food, nor are they necessarily about body image. Actually, eating disorders are mental health issues that typically manifest due to stress and anxiety. As such, it is not at all uncommon for eating disorders to be triggered by particularly stressful, volatile environments—including many places of work.

Yes, it is more than possible that someone in your office could be struggling with an eating disorder. Remember that eating disorders are equal opportunity offenders; they can impact men and women, people of all ages, races, ethnicities, and sexual orientations. So, anyone in your office could potentially have this silent struggle.

Remember that eating disorders are by their very nature sensitive subjects—hard to discuss, intensely private. Yet, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms in order to offer support for a co-worker. Some noteworthy signs and symptoms to watch out for include weight loss, obsession with dieting, secretive or ritualistic eating habits (including the insistence on eating alone), mood swings, lack of concentration and low self-esteem.

But what do you do if you observe these symptoms in a colleague—if you are genuinely worried about your co-worker’s well-being? Some steps to follow:

• Try to foster open communication in your workplace, establishing a place where you can express honest concern for someone in a compassionate way, without them feeling judged or threatened.
• Be firm; remember that those with eating disorders may be in deep denial, but it’s not helping them for you to pretend like their eating disorder doesn’t exist.
• Offer resources where and when you can, helping your coworker get connected with a treatment and recovery center.

Above all, remind your co-worker that recovery is more than possible—and encourage them to seek the care they need today.

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