02/05/2024
Having personal experience within my own family of caring for a loved one with with anorexia I know only too well the importance of mental health support; not only for the sufferer, but also for their family and friends.
As a carer, you may feel you don't have time for self-care, you may have pulled away from your friendship group in order to cope with caring for a loved one; you may be struggling with feelings of isolation and despair. The road is long and heart-breaking; my heart goes out to you. I can't stress how important it is that you take time out and do something for yourself, even for an hour, to recharge; to not lose yourself, to come back strongerπβ€οΈ
As a sufferer, each case is unique and the associated feelings are complex. It's an unfortunate reality that the illness is often met with misunderstanding and triggers are commonplace. l want you to know that wherever you are on your journey, people do care and support is out there πβ€οΈπ
If you are suffering with an eating disorder or are caring for someone with with an eating disorder, please, please please reach out:
BEAT are the UK's leading ED charity. They are an excellent resource providing support, information, helplines and webchat.
Kerry Lisa Reflexology - provides holistic therapy using a gentle reflexology technique combined with support and understanding for coping with this extremely challenging illness.
Reflexology can be hugely beneficial for mental health and a regular treatment can help you cope with life in today's environment.
Itβs important to remember that eating disorders are not all about food itself, but about feelings.
The way the person treats food may make them feel more able to cope, or may make them feel in control, though they might not be aware of the purpose this behaviour is serving.
And remember - an eating disorder is never the fault of the person experiencing it, and anyone who has an eating disorder deserves fast, compassionate support to help them get better π§‘
If you're struggling at the moment, take a look at the information on our website, join an online support group or contact our Helpline Mon-Fri if you need someone to talk things through with π
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