Helping your child to recover from an eating disorder can be a struggle, coming to terms with your own feelings of helplessness while your child struggles. Parents are often being pulled in several directions- confronting personal feelings as well as those of those of the child and family, while juggling the misconceptions others can have about eating disorders.

Science has shown that it’s not a choice, but a brain disorder. Individuals most at risk for developing eating disorders can demonstrate underlying genetic predispositions to other issues such as perfectionism, low self-esteem or anxiety. Going through the process of treatment and recovery can be as challenging for a parent as it is for the child.

The National Eating Disorders Association has a resource and educational pdf for parents, specifically, as well as having various methods for following articles and information on social networking. Educating yourself and understanding the process can be an important way to stay focused on the solution- it is possible to see positive change with persistence, support and effective treatment.

Finding support for yourself as a parent is also an important tool to be able to be able to provide the support your child needs from you through recovery. Joining a local or Internet support group is a great environment to be able to talk with other parents who are going through the same struggles. F.E.A.S.T. (Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders) has an excellent forum for parents as well as a regular twitter feed open to the public.

There may not be an easy solution or quick fix for an eating disorder, but taking care of yourself as well as taking care of your child is essential. Make sure to prepare as you would for any important endeavor: build a helpful support team, educate yourself, learn to ask for help when you need it, and keep in mind that recovery is possible. Call us today at 877.937.8930. We’re here to help.

[cta]Keep the conversation going by commenting here, and then sharing your personal affirmations on Instagram using hashtag #NoFilter. Your affirmation may be what someone else is seeking as a guide in their own recovery![/cta]