3 Ways to Help Someone Who Might Have an Eating Disorder

February 24th – March 1st is Eating Disorder Awareness Week, so I wanted to write this post as a way to raise awareness and share encouragement with you. I know from personal experience how difficult it is to deal with an eating disorder—and to recover from an eating disorder—so I wanted to provide three specific ways that you can help someone who might have an eating disorder:

1. Pray often.

Never underestimate the power of prayer. It’s the best medicine, the best therapy, and the best way to help. If someone you know shows signs of an eating disorder, take your concerns straight to God. He knows that person so much better than you do, and He knows exactly what that person needs.

2. Don’t simply quote Psalm 139:14. 

While Psalm 139:14 (which says we’re wonderfully made by God) is undoubtedly true, it didn’t fix my eating disorder. Of course, use Scripture to encourage someone who may be struggling with an eating disorder. However, because eating disorders are mental illnesses, that person probably needs therapy and/or medication and/or other forms of treatment in addition to scriptural truths.

3. Offer guidance and direction, if the situation is appropriate.

You can’t assume that someone has an eating disorder because he or she eats salads, goes to the gym regularly, or looks smaller. Jumping to conclusions and listening to rumors isn’t wise. Individuals with eating disorders don’t just have one “symptom.” If you notice multiple symptoms of an eating disorder, it may be appropriate to offer your help, particularly if the person is a family member or friend. But before offering help, always pray for wisdom first.  

Closing Thoughts

The Lord will sustain him [the helpless] upon his sickbed; in his illness, You restore him to health. (Psalm 41:3 NASB)

God is the ultimate Healer, and He often uses individuals in the healing process—whether it’s physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual healing. Of course, He uses doctors, nurses, counselors, and a variety of other trained professionals. But He can also use you. If He’s leading you to help someone who might someone with an eating disorder, don’t ignore His call to take action.