Brothers are the best. But seeing yours suffering from an eating disorder can feel like it’s eating you alive.
Anxiety and depression are on the rampage today as never before. Sometimes, even a seemingly small event can trigger a change in a person that leads them down the path of an eating disorder.
If you see your brother suffering from an eating disorder, what can you do?
Firstly, don’t panic and don’t pressure him. This is one time when you really don’t want to sound like a nagging brother or sister. Your brother needs to know and feel that you have his back and really want to help him.
Real support is not enabling. It involves you setting aside your own feelings and agenda, helping your brother feel safe, and reassuring him that you love him and will not leave him.
An eating disorder can be a lonely experience.
Sufferers are often misunderstood. It can be scary for them to feel like the compulsive behavior that makes them feel ‘better’ is going to be taken away from them. This can actually lead to the worsening of symptoms.
So don’t try to bulldoze your brother into doing what you think will help him. Do the research and share it with him at a good time for HIM.
Maybe find some local therapy practices that specialize in treating eating disorders and share those with him too. Keep reassuring him that you love him, that you want to help him, and that you will never give up trying to help him.
It’s important that you know that there real help is available, and it does work. Your brother can get better. But the decision to work towards wellness can only come from him - forcing someone to go to therapy may be a waste of time if they are not choosing for themselves to pursue treatment.
It’s also important to find a therapist who specializes in treating eating disorders.
They will be best able to support and guide your brother on his journey towards mental and physical wellness IF he chooses it.
Inside Wellness are a team of mental health professionals who specialize in treating eating disorders. We care for individuals in the Salt Lake Valley, Utah Valley, Salt Lake City, Provo, Orem, the University of Utah, BYU, and beyond.
Our team of warm, empathetic therapists are highly trained in treating eating disorders and will work alongside your brother on his journey toward mental health and wholeness.
The choice must come from your brother. Encourage him to reach out for help. Don’t give up on your brother or get angry with him. Support him and gently help him choose to get the support he needs.
Begin Eating Disorder Treatment in Provo, UT
Finding the right support can make all the difference in your recovery journey. Our team of caring therapists would be happy to offer support from our Provo, UT-based therapy practice. You can start your therapy journey with Inside Wellness by following these simple steps:
schedule a call with our experienced Care Coordinator to find the best fit
Meet with a caring therapist
Start overcoming eating disorders!
Other Services Offered With Inside Wellness
Our team understands you may experience a number of mental health concerns in addition to eating disorder treatment. This is why we are happy to offer support with a variety of mental health services. Other services offered include body image counseling, anxiety therapy, EMDR Therapy, and online Therapy in Utah. Feel free to visit our blog or FAQ to learn more helpful information!