Video:How to Talk to Your Teen About Anorexia

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Transcript:How to Talk to Your Teen About Anorexia

Hi, my name is Patricia O'Laughlin and I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with TherapyForParents.com.

Approaching the Subject of Anorexia With Your Teen

Today I'm going to talk to you on behalf of About.com about how to talk to your teen about anorexia. The most important thing is when you approach your teen that you remain calm. Take deep breaths, and think of a calm place, before you approach your teen. I know you're scared, but if you approach them scared, the conversation is going to go badly, quickly.

Points to Consider When Talking to Your Teen About Anorexia

There are 5 points to consider when talking to your teen about anorexia.

The first is approach them calmly and validate that it's a difficult situation. Think about the conversation that you love them no matter what, and you're going to love them unconditionally.

The second point is to understand that if your teen gets defensive, it's not about you. Your teen feels bad about what's happening to them. Anorexia comes with a lot of shame. When they get defensive and they might say things like "I don't care about you, get away from me," try to remain calm and remember, it's not about you.

The third point is it's important to get your teen help immediately. Denial is a major part of anorexia. Don't let your teen convince you that they can control this on their own. Get them to the doctor immediately. Then get them the psychological support they need.

The fourth thing to remember is that it's not easy to give up anorexia. It's a coping skill that the teen has developed and is using. They need help to replace it with another coping skill, that is better for them psychologically and physically.

And the fifth point is don't engage in a lecture with your teen. Lectures do not work. Remain calm, keep it short and simple, ask questions and give feedback. But when your teen stops listening, you are just wasting your time.

Additional Notes About Talking to Your Teen About Anorexia

I know that thinking you have a teen that has anorexia is a difficult thing. Please try to get support as soon as you can. Thank you so much for listening and for more information, visit us on the web at About.com.