Medical care focuses on restoring physical health through nutritional support, monitoring, and treatment when needed.

Comprehensive treatment may include one or more of the following:

Counselling helps individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours to support recovery and a healthier relationship with food. It often includes one or more of the following:

Learn about what your friend is going to better understand their journey, while recognizing your own boundaries and well-being.

Learn and respond with understanding
Learning about eating disorders helps you better understand what your friend may be going through and respond with empathy instead of assumptions or unhelpful comments.

Look after yourself too
It's okay to have limits. Leaning on your own support network helps you show up for them over the long run.

Let them know you are there for them, open the door to a safe conversation, and listen calmly without judgment.

Show care and availability
Let your friend know you care and are there for them. A simple statement like, “I’m here to listen if you ever want to talk,” can feel very reassuring.

Listen calmly and without judgment
When they open up, focus on listening more than speaking. Staying calm, patient, and non-judgmental helps them feel safe, even if you feel worried.

Learn how to keep conversations centered on feelings rather than food or appearance, validate their trust, and remind them of who they are.

Focus on feelings, not food or appearance
Avoid commenting on weight, body shape, diets, or food (including your own). Instead, centre conversations on how they're feeling emotionally.

Acknowledge the moment
A simple 'That sounds really tough' or 'Thank you for trusting me' goes a long way.

Remind them of who they are
Remind them of their qualities, such as their kindness, humour, and creativity. Not how they look.

Discover how to model healthy habits, gently encourage professional help, and stay connected through activities that don't involve food.

Model healthy habits and prioritise emotional check-ins
Eating together calmly, avoiding “good” or “bad” food labels, and treating movement as part of everyday life can quietly support a healthier mindset.

Encourage help and connection
Gently encourage them to seek professional support or talk to a trusted adult. Offering to sit with them or help reach out can make this feel less overwhelming.

Stay connected and look after yourself
Spend time together doing non-food-focused activities and remind them of qualities unrelated to appearance. At the same time, recognise your own limits and seek support for yourself when needed.