How to Recognise and Support a Loved One with an Eating Disorder

By Michael, Eating Disorder Dietitian

I’m Michael, an Accredited Practising Dietitian who has been working in the space of eating disorders for many years now. In that time, I’ve supported people at every stage of their journey—from those just starting to recognise they have a difficult relationship with food to those in the depths of an eating disorder who need intensive support.

I know firsthand how complex and overwhelming eating disorders can be, not just for the person experiencing them, but for their loved ones too. If you’re worried about someone close to you, you might be unsure of what to look out for, how to bring up the conversation, or what kind of help is actually useful.

This blog will walk you through:

• Signs of an eating disorder
• How to approach the conversation with care
• Where to find professional support

Signs of an Eating Disorder: What to Look Out For

Eating disorders don’t always look the way you might expect. Someone doesn’t have to be visibly underweight or avoid food altogether to be struggling. There are many different types of disordered eating habits, and they can show up in a range of behaviours.

Some red flags that might indicate someone is struggling include:

• Preoccupation with weight, body shape, or appearance
• Strict food rules – such as cutting out entire food groups or following rigid eating patterns
• Constant thoughts about food – spending excessive time planning meals, avoiding certain foods, or feeling guilty after eating
• Negative body image – expressing dissatisfaction with their body or engaging in excessive body-checking
• Increased anxiety around mealtimes
• Avoiding social situations involving food
• Physical signs – swollen cheeks, knuckle calluses, or dental issues due to frequent vomiting
• Compulsive exercise – exercising despite illness, injury, or exhaustion
• Rapid weight loss or frequent weight fluctuations
• Loss of menstruation or other hormonal changes
• Fatigue, dizziness, or fainting

It’s important to remember that eating disorders don’t discriminate. They affect people of all genders, ages, and body types. Even if someone doesn’t have a formal eating disorder diagnosis, they may still struggle with food in ways that negatively impact their physical and mental health.

How to Help Someone with an Eating Disorder

If you’ve started to notice disordered eating habits in a loved one, bringing it up can feel daunting. These conversations aren’t easy, and they don’t always go the way you expect. But approaching it with care can make a real difference.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Educate yourself first – Understanding eating disorders and how they present can help you feel more confident in starting the conversation.
• Pick the right moment – Choose a time when they feel comfortable and relaxed, away from distractions.
• Lead with concern, not judgement – Instead of saying “You need to eat more,” try “I’ve noticed you seem really tired and withdrawn lately, and I’m worried about you.”
• Avoid talking about food and weight – Focus on their mood, behaviours, or energy levels instead.
• Prepare for different reactions – They may feel relieved, deny the issue, or even react with frustration. It can take time for them to be ready to open up.

If they do acknowledge they’re struggling, encourage them to seek professional support. Early intervention is key in helping someone improve their relationship with food and body image.

Why Seeing an Eating Disorder Dietitian is Important

If someone is experiencing disordered eating habits, working with a dietitian who specialises in eating disorders can be a crucial step in recovery.

A dietitian can help by:

• Ensuring they are eating enough to support their body’s needs
• Challenging rigid food rules and improving food variety
• Addressing fears around certain foods and building a more flexible approach to eating
• Preventing or treating malnutrition
• Tailoring nutrition support to their individual needs, preferences, and medical conditions
• Providing ongoing guidance in repairing their relationship with food

As a dietitian experienced in eating disorder recovery, I also work closely with GPs, psychologists, and mental health professionals to ensure clients receive the full spectrum of support they need. Eating disorders are about more than just food, and recovery requires a team approach.

Where to Get Help for Eating Disorders

If you or someone you love is struggling with eating disorder support, there are services available:

• Butterfly Foundation Helpline
• Eating Disorders Queensland
• Lifeline Australia (Crisis Support)

If you’re looking for practical, evidence-based nutrition support from a dietitian who understands eating disorders, I’d love to help.

Book an appointment with me here.

You don’t have to go through this alone. Support is available, and recovery is possible.