What to do if there's a problem Parents and friends of a person with an eating disorder may find it difficult to deal with such a constant, long-term health problem. Although dealing with the problem is difficult, ignoring it has far more serious consequences. Professional Help Is Important Don't expect the eating disorder to go away by itself. Seek help from a qualified professional immediately. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment greatly improve chances of recovery. It is much more difficult for the person to change behavior that has gone on for years. Call 911 if someone with an eating disorder is having any of these symptoms, even if they beg you not to call or threaten to run away. having chest pains vomiting blood is dizzy or passing out is suicidal or talks about dying Tips for Family and Friends Don't blame yourself or anyone else (including the patient) for the eating disorder. Your obligation is to help your child or friend get into treatment. Getting well is his/her responsibility. Don't urge your child or friend to eat, watch or monitor eating, or discuss food intake or weight. Your involvement with eating can be a tool for manipulation. Don't neglect your family. Focusing on the sick child or friend can perpetrate the illness and destroy the family. The person with the eating disorder is responsible for their behavior whenever it affects others. Do not monitor someone else's behavior for them, even if you're invited to. Don't make mealtimes a battleground. Keep discussion about food issues to a minimum Be willing to negotiate household chores involving food. Don't be afraid to support a recommendation for residential treatment or hospitalization. Don't use put-downs or compare the patient to others who are more "successful". Don't play therapist. Let the professional handle it. Do everything you can to encourage initiative, independence and autonomy. Be aware of the long-term nature of the illness. Seek help for yourself. Join a family support group or individual therapy to help you through this difficult time.   ABOUT THIS PROGRAM | UNDERSTANDING EATING DISORDERS WHEN IT'S SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT | TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE TO LEARN MORE | DISORDERED EATING MAIN PAGE BACK TO HEALTHWORKS | RETURN TO TV HOME PAGE © 1999 Prairie Public Broadcasting, Inc.