How to Stage an Intervention for Someone with an Eating Disorder
If you know someone who is suffering from an eating disorder, this can be a very scary and life-threatening disease. Just like alcoholism or addiction, this is a progressive illness that sometimes requires an intervention. There are three critical phases to an eating disorder intervention; the planning, the intervention and the follow-up. I’ve given step-by-step instructions on how to stage an intervention for someone with an eating disorder below.
How to Stage an Intervention for Someone with an Eating Disorder: The Planning
When you are planning an intervention for someone with an eating disorder it is important to consider that both the eating disorder and the intervention are extremely emotional issues and it is best to include a professional in the process. The first goal is to get your family member with the eating disorder to seek suitable treatment. The second goal is to get your family out of a crisis condition that so often happens when a family member has such a problem. Children usually shouldn’t be involved; it is best to have them just write a letter or draw a picture in regards to their feelings. There may be supports who should attend the intervention as well. Many people with eating disorders are in a state of denial so inviting everyone is probably not the best idea. When you plan the intervention, you need to decide what you want from the person with the eating disorder and how to put that plan into action. You also should decide amongst the other people attending whether or not there will be consequences if this person doesn’t seek treatment.
How to Stage an Intervention for Someone with an Eating Disorder: The Intervention
It’s not recommended to tell the sufferer about the intervention before it happens. Once it begins, make sure it develops in a supportive, caring manner. The friends or family attending usually read prepared letters specifying how the person’s illness has impacted them and their worries for the person. They will also discuss precise instances of troublesome behaviors and their impact. By the end of the intervention, you will share what your requests for change are with the person with the eating disorder. Explain what you want and what the consequences will be if they do not comply.
How to Stage an Intervention for Someone with an Eating Disorder: The Follow-up
Once you have carefully planned out and done the intervention, is it very important to follow-up with the person on either their progress in treatment or with consequences if they didn’t go through with help. If the person is seeking help in treatment or therapy, you want to make sure to show your support. This can be a difficult time for the person suffering from an eating disorder and they will really need to the support of family and loved ones. If they have decided against help, you will have to make certain you follow through with the consequences that were discussed during the intervention. Whether you want to know how to stage an intervention for someone with an eating disorder who is having issues with anorexia, bulimia, overeating or distorted body image you always want to come from a place of love when trying to get them help. Remember, this is a disease and they are sick. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, please call toll free 1-800-777-9588.
Source:
http://health.howstuffworks.com/mental-health/eating-disorder/eating-disorder-intervention.htm