Our daughter Emily developed an eating disorder, anorexia, at around the age of 14, and the realisation that we were all powerless to stop what was happening was the moment where normal family life became suspended. The shock and fear took hold and all our focus was on our daughter. It took a while to notice that our son, Tom, who at 12 years old needed us very much too…
Eating disorder behaviours are irrational and unreasonable, and the potential for conflict is enormous. Unconditional love is demanded even whilst you are being rejected – which means that you will need a lot of empathy for yourself too…
I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling guilty for the way I behaved as I was getting worse – and even as I was getting better – with anorexia. I get it when I think about the ways I’ve affected – and the ways I’ve treated – the people around me. I pushed people away. I said horrible things to those who tried to help me. I broke things…
Building a support network will mean that you can take better care of yourself; giving yourself the time to recharge when you need it in order to keep your ‘cup topped up’…
Are you worried that you, or a loved one may have an eating disorder? Our Peer Support Team have lived experiences of eating disorders and recovery.
To talk to someone who understands, book a 1:1 support call, we’re here to help.
