Post by Mel on Dec 23, 2005 16:03:32 GMT -5
Talking with Teens
Avoid commenting directly on physical appearance or body shape. Statements or questions such as "You look great!" or "You look better…you've gained weight?" or "You've lost weight? What's going on?" often make young women feel extremely uncomfortable. During recovery, teens often look much healthier, brighter, and stronger. However, commenting on this is often interpreted by the teen negatively. A remark such as "You look so much better now that you're not all skin and bones!" will likely be interpreted as “I am fat!" by a young woman with an eating disorder.
Comment on health and energy level. Statements like, or “You look full of energy!” or "You look well rested" are more appropriate and often make young women feel supported in their recovery. This type of conversations shows recognition of improved health status and do not focus on body shape or size.
Smile! Happiness is contagious. A bright, cheerful, and consistently positive attitude works wonders! It is very difficult to watch someone you care about struggle with any illness. Worried looks or tears often make young women feel very guilty about their eating disorder and may lead the teen to feel more anxiety, self-loathing, and depression. It is very important to try to be positive. A simple smile can spread a message of hope and cheer to a teen with an eating disorder.
Avoid commenting directly on physical appearance or body shape. Statements or questions such as "You look great!" or "You look better…you've gained weight?" or "You've lost weight? What's going on?" often make young women feel extremely uncomfortable. During recovery, teens often look much healthier, brighter, and stronger. However, commenting on this is often interpreted by the teen negatively. A remark such as "You look so much better now that you're not all skin and bones!" will likely be interpreted as “I am fat!" by a young woman with an eating disorder.
Comment on health and energy level. Statements like, or “You look full of energy!” or "You look well rested" are more appropriate and often make young women feel supported in their recovery. This type of conversations shows recognition of improved health status and do not focus on body shape or size.
Smile! Happiness is contagious. A bright, cheerful, and consistently positive attitude works wonders! It is very difficult to watch someone you care about struggle with any illness. Worried looks or tears often make young women feel very guilty about their eating disorder and may lead the teen to feel more anxiety, self-loathing, and depression. It is very important to try to be positive. A simple smile can spread a message of hope and cheer to a teen with an eating disorder.