013. How To Support A Loved One Struggling With Binge Eating

January 18, 2021

support a loved one; ryann nicole

Hey There, I'm Ryann Nicole.

I’m a recovered binge eater who changed the story from something that happened to me to something that happened for me. Now, I’m a licensed therapist teaching you to do the same.

My mission? To help you ditch food stress and live your life with mental peace and freedom every single day!


Episode Transcript

Today, I want to address a specific audience – the parents, friends, family members, and spouses of individuals struggling with binge eating. It’s a tough situation, and I want to share my experience to help you understand and support your loved ones better.

Understanding Binge Eating

If someone you care about is dealing with binge eating, it’s crucial not to focus on food quantity. They don’t need a diet or less food; instead, they need encouragement to eat normally. Binge eating stems from a mindset issue, not the food itself.

Supportive Actions

  1. Encourage Normal Eating:
    • Normalize regular, mindful eating.
    • Shift the focus from dieting to enjoying food without shame.
    • Avoid restrictive measures, as they can exacerbate binge eating.
  2. Avoid Weight Fluctuation Comments:
    • Refrain from drawing attention to weight fluctuations.
    • Constantly thinking about their weight, your loved one doesn’t need additional comments making them feel worse.
    • Support them with love, acknowledging their beauty regardless of weight changes.
  3. Address the Mindset, Not Just the Food:
    • Understand that binge eating is a mindset problem, not solely a food problem.
    • Clearing out the pantry or altering the types of food won’t solve the issue.
    • Binge eating isn’t a conscious choice; it’s often an involuntary, subconscious act.

Supporting with Love

Being a supportive friend, family member, or partner means realizing that you can’t change the situation. Your role is to love and offer support. Ask your loved one what they need rather than imposing solutions. Love and support go a long way in helping someone struggling with binge eating.

If you’re here, it shows how much you care. Remember, there’s nothing you can do to fix the situation, but your love and understanding can make a significant impact. Reach out, ask questions, and be there for your loved ones.

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Ryann Nicole

Licensed Therapist, Certified Nutritionist, and Virtual Wellness Coach

Ryann is a licensed therapist and virtual wellness coach who has assisted individuals worldwide in establishing a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.

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Ryann is a licensed therapist and virtual wellness coach who has assisted individuals worldwide in establishing a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.