Dear Supporter,
If you’re reading this, you may know someone who is struggling with an eating disorder. As an eating disorder therapist, I've had many conversations with supporters about how desperately they want their loved one to recover and kick an eating disorder's ass. It's a hard thing to be witness to and I want you to know I'm here for you.
I know that you’ve been watching days go by where your loved one is withering away; they are not themselves, you don’t recognize their actions or their words, bits of their personality has changed but you know the person you love is in there somewhere.
I know you are desperate to find the child who grew up to love sports, animals and helping others, the friend you made a few years ago who you instantly clicked with, the sibling who shared their toys and snacks with you and the partner that you fell in love with.
I promise you - that person is still there.
I know eating disorders don't totally make sense no matter how hard you try to understand what you're loved one is going through. I know you are trying so hard to say and do the right thing to help this person fight their eating disorder each and everyday. I know receiving feedback from this loved one can be hard sometimes too.
I promise you - there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
I know one day that person will come back to you. You will see each fight they have get easier, you will see them smile yet again and you will see the day they don't let their eating disorder get in their way.
I promise you - that day is coming.
I'm here for you,
Stephanie
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating, please reach out for the help you deserve. If you are a supporter, please reach out for the help you deserve as well.
Stephanie Polizzi is a licensed psychotherapist (LMHC)
Stephanie specializes in tweens, teens and adults struggling with anxiety,eating disorders, behavioral challenges, life transitions and trauma.
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