Homeward Bound!

 In less than 70 hours, our girl will be home! She has come so far - worked so hard - and we just can't wait! For the next few weeks she will be attending intensive outpatient treatment 5 days a week for 6 hours a day - but she'll be home every night and able to engage in things she loves - spending time with friends and soccer. (School isn't far behind!)

If you are like me, you worry about saying the wrong thing to her/us. Don't worry about it! We know it is a transition and transitions take time. To help you out, here are a few tips that might be useful.

1) Please avoid discussing weight, shape, or diets. We'd ask you not to make comments on looks, instead make non-appearance related compliments. 
Here are a few examples:
  • Your smile lights up the room - I am so happy to see that smile.
  • You are a positive role model - your hard work is inspirational.
  • I enjoy spending time with you  - I am so happy you are healthy and home.
  • Your kindness is infectious.
  • You are motivational.
  • I love your energy and sense of humor.

2) People struggling with ED's may not be comfortable eating around others. Please refrain from making judgements on this and to do one better...make plans that do not revolve around food. 

3) If it seems like your loved one with an ED is having a hard day, try one of these techniques:
        Distraction (Go do something - play a game, do a craft)
        Opposite Action (Encourage them to do the opposite of what ED is telling them to do)
        Fact check (Are your feelings facts? What is TRUE?)

I have been reading a book called, "Goodbye Ed, Hello Me" by Jenni Schaefer. It's an easy read, and has really helped me think through the recovery process. Because, it is a process...but we are now ready to take the next step.

Counting the hours until Friday....

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