Supporting someone else
Are you worried about someone you care about?
Eating disorders are often hidden behind shame and secrecy, which can make it hard to recognise when someone is struggling. You might notice changes such as:
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Pulling away from friends or family
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Becoming very focused on food, eating, or weight
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Fear of weight gain or attempts to lose weight through restriction, excessive exercise, or purging
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Rigid routines or rituals around food
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Secretive behaviour or hiding things
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Low confidence, low self-esteem, or increased anxiety
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A changed or distorted view of their body
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Ignoring hunger or fullness cues
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Difficulties with other mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or OCD
Realising that someone you love may be experiencing an eating disorder can feel frightening and overwhelming. Seeing changes in someone who once felt open, relaxed, or full of life can be deeply upsetting. You don’t have to face this alone — support and understanding are available, and we’re here to help you take the next step.
“Finding TEDS was a lifeline for our family. Being able to talk openly with people who truly understood helped me feel less alone and gave me hope when everything felt overwhelming.”
— Parent —
Support for carers and those supporting someone with an eating disorder
At TEDS, we offer a mixed self-help group for people experiencing an eating disorder and for those supporting someone they care about. We understand how worrying and isolating it can feel to support a loved one, especially when ongoing support in the community can be limited.
Our groups welcome parents, partners, family members, and friends, as well as individuals who are struggling themselves. Meetings are open to males and females aged 16 and over, and our phone support is available to people of all ages. Groups are held in a kind, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can talk, share concerns, or simply listen.
TEDS is a pro-recovery group with a strong belief that recovery is possible. Those who attend include carers, people at different stages of recovery, volunteers, and a trained psychotherapist. The group was originally set up to support carers, recognising how alone this role can sometimes feel.
If you are supporting someone with an eating disorder, please know that you don’t have to manage this on your own. Our website includes clear information and helpful resources, and you are always welcome to contact us or attend a support group to talk things through with others who understand.
