Topic Overview

One person's struggle with anorexia nervosa affects the entire family. Counseling can be a big help to everyone in your family, whether it means seeing a counselor alone, as a couple, or as a family. Each family member may need reassurance or counseling at different times during the course of the illness. Seek the support you need during this time from all available resources.

• Use a professional counselor to help you work through your concerns and reduce the eating disorder's impact on you and your family.
• Make time for other children in your family to receive one-on-one love and attention.
• Use a family therapist to help your family members find new ways to support one another.
• Use a family therapist to find new ways to support your loved one's eating disorder recovery. For example, a person who has anorexia is likely to do better in an organized environment that is free from chaos and emotional outbursts.