What interventions are effective for individuals with anorexia nervosa?

Interventions for anorexia nervosa

When a loved one shows signs of anorexia nervosa, such as an obsession with avoiding weight gain, severe weight loss, restricting food intake, and other disordered eating habits, it's time to step in and try to help.

Educate yourself about anorexia nervosa

The first step in performing an intervention for anorexia is to learn about eating disorders. Sometimes people have misconceptions about anorexia nervosa, and everyone can stand to learn how to be more understanding of people with eating disorders in general.

When you understand that anorexia nervosa is a mental health condition and not a "moral failing" or a "lifestyle choice," you can be better prepared to support your loved one. Understanding the nature of eating disorders will help you be more caring and compassionate toward the person. You will recognize that their symptoms and behaviors result from a legitimate medical condition that requires treatment.

Be prepared to express concern 

When you're ready to talk about your concerns with a friend or family member, it is helpful if you have prepared what you will say. For example, you might rehearse the conversation with another loved one or write some talking points you'd like to address during your conversation.² This might help you to remain calm during the conversation. 

When you do sit down to talk with your loved one about your concerns, it is helpful if you are prepared with specific examples of behavior that concerns you. For example, you might mention that you have noticed that your loved one has been restricting intake or suddenly has significantly low body weight, or perhaps you have noticed that they are spending so much time exercising that they no longer spend time with the children or participate in activities they used to enjoy. 

Coming to the conversation with examples of specific concerns not only helps your loved one to understand that you care; it also limits their ability to brush off or deny your concerns. You may be met with some resistance, but if you can provide evidence of your concerns, your loved one may be more likely to listen. Be conscious and respectful of their boundaries. If they aren't in a space where they are ready to talk about their eating habits or aren't able to talk to you about it, be understanding of those boundaries as well. 

Show your support and understanding 

Perhaps the most beneficial way to help a loved one is by expressing your desire to support them. Maybe your loved one will not be willing to talk or accept help during your first conversation, but telling them that you support them and are available to talk can make a significant difference. Something as simple as communicating, "I am here for you when you're ready to talk," can open the door to your loved one making changes.

Something as simple as communicating, "I am here for you when you're ready to talk," can open the door to your loved one making changes.

One of the best ways to express your support is to tell your loved one there is no shame in seeking help. They may deny that they have a problem, or perhaps they are worried about negative judgment. Remove some of the stigma by reminding them that anorexia is a mental health disorder and they deserve treatment.²

Encourage them to seek help

Ultimately, a person who has an eating disorder should seek treatment so they can receive the professional interventions for anorexia nervosa that are needed to overcome the disorder. A professional intervention will help treat eating disorder symptoms and address any medical issues resulting from anorexia. Encouraging your loved one to enter treatment or see a therapist is important. You might even offer to help them make the first call to schedule an intake appointment. 

Treatment as a medical intervention for anorexia nervosa 

With quality treatment, people with anorexia nervosa can overcome the eating disorder and live healthy, meaningful lives. Research has shown that inpatient care is effective for increasing weight restoration when outpatient treatment hasn't helped or the person is experiencing medical complications.³

Within offers a compassionate virtual eating disorder treatment program for those who cannot access in-person treatment. You can receive comprehensive treatment services from your care team, consisting of psychiatrists, nurses, dietitians, and therapists, without ever leaving home. Read about our revolutionary treatment program to learn more.