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Educate Yourself on the Issues

Even when we have the best intentions, our implicit biases can interfere with our ability to support someone who's struggling with an eating disorder. "We all grew up with harmful messages around bodies and eating, and it's no wonder that so many of us, especially women, struggle with concerns related to eating," Dr. Nadeau explained. "Being supportive of a friend with an eating disorder means you'll need to challenge some of your own ideas that may sneak their way into your friendship." She recommends learning more about fatphobia and the Health at Every Size (HAES) movement. "[This] will empower you to show up as an authentically caring, supportive presence in your friend's life," Dr. Nadeau said.

Image Source: Getty / Marko Geber