Caring for someone with an eating disorder can be stressful and have a significant impact on your wellbeing. We offer a specific carers support project so you can feel more supported whilst supporting your loved one. Our carers support project includes befriending, a support group and self help and wellbeing training.
You don’t need to be living with the person you are concerned about to come along. The group is confidential, informal, friendly and always respects privacy. It is run by a trained facilitator who understands eating disorders, and everyone will have a chance to speak if they wish to, or you can just listen.
It will allow you the opportunity to share your stories and experiences with people who understand what you are going through and look positively toward the future. Discussing ways of how you can develop coping strategies to help you take care of your own health and wellbeing. Through a good support network, we can help you to be a more effective carer.
Befriending offers you the chance to 1:1 speak to someone about how you are feeling. Your befriender is there to be a non-judgemental listening ear, to chat about whatever is affecting you that day.
We hope that our services will give you a sense of community and help all that attend feel less alone and isolated.
If you have any questions about our carers project, please contact projects@supportedscotland.org
Resources to other services
If you are not in a position to attend our support group or prefer to receive support on a more anonymous/individual basis, the following resources might be of help.
Beat offers a variety of services: a course for parents/carers & helplines and support network
If you are struggling with supporting your loved one, you might be thinking of getting some professional support for yourself. The online Counselling Directory lets you easily find counsellors and psychiatrists (online and offline).
If you are unsure about what help is out there and what is best for you, feel free to get in touch and have a confidential, no obligations chat with us.
Self-help tips
Supporting someone with an eating disorder can be tough, especially if you have never experienced mental health struggles yourself. We have collated a few resources that provide tips and in-depth information:
Beat Tips for Carers/Supporting someone with an eating disorder
The following books might also help:
Anorexia and other eating disorders. How to help your child eat well and be well
Help Your Teenager Beat an Eating Disorder
The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders in the United States offers a long list of books on eating disorders and recovery journeys.
Children 1st parentline – this free hotline and their website offer helpful advice to parents.
Seven Summers Past– This is a short story from the perspective of a carer, written by Anorexia Myths. Anorexia Myths also have several useful articles about eating disorders from the perspective of a carer.
Do you need help?
Seeking help is first and best thing you can do if you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder. Our volunteers are here to listen and provide the support you need.