How can I support someone with an eating disorder without making them feel embarrassed or patronized?

I think the biggest thing you can do is just to continue to be supportive of them. Let them know you care about them and are willing to help them get better if they choose, but don't push or force the issue.

Be careful to avoid critical or accusatory statements, as this will only make your friend or family member defensive. Instead, focus on the specific behaviors that worry you. Focus on feelings and relationships, not on weight and food. Share your memories of specific times when you felt concerned about the person’s eating behavior. Explain that you think these things may indicate that there could be a problem that needs professional help. Tell them you are concerned about their health, but respect their privacy. Do not comment on how they look. Avoid giving simple solutions. For example, "If you'd just stop, then everything would be fine!"

Don't make it a huge deal. Don't act like you are constantly watching them and making sure they are ok. Just treat them normally and make sure they know you are there if they need you.

If they're diagnosed with an eating disorder, it's best that you support them and ensure they comply to their dietary needs. Of course, not incessantly questioning them about their food intake - but to casually remind them when they're a little more towards the relapse side. About how overwhelmed they would feel, it's best to act like how you used to. Make them think everything's normal and show support when they need it. Good luck!

Eating disorders are a complex, complicated, multi-dimensional pattern of behaviors and thoughts, and no two people are the same. Supporting someone with an eating disorder can be just as tricky as understanding the motivation and driving force behind it. Letting them know you are available to talk with them, and let them know you may be able to relate to what they are feeling and thinking, are cliche by good methods of support. Being open, receptive, and non-judgmental when they talk with you are important as well. Often times eating disorders are embarrassing for the person struggling with it. Knowing how to help them and what you can do is an important part of their recovery, as you may be their only support at the moment. For more information on eating disorders you can check out the 7 Cups self-help guide, talk with a counsellor, or talk to a doctor.

Be there for them , empathize with them , listen to their feelings and don't make light of the situation or pretend you understand what they are going through. Let them let it all out, just be there for them . Lend a listening ear .

It very much depends what eating disorder you are referring to but in general I would say that there is a lot of shame surrounding disordered behaviours, make them feel loved unconditionally and if you have the time to give let them know that they can talk to you, try not to act shocked or lecture, don't get angry excessively or talk too much about the impact it has on you, the chances are they already feel guilty, let them know that it is okay to reach for help and that their emotions are valid, it does not need to be a secret and they do not need to be ashamed, be pleased with their successes (if they are) and comfort them in their distress and above all provide hope because it does and can get better.

You can send or read articles to them regarding the disorder or caregivers role in the disorder and they will know that what you are doing is very common in the disorder.

The most important thing is to just be there for a person. Whether it with an eating disorder or any other mental illness, the things that people will appreciate is the person who was there for them. You don't have to say anything except for "I'm here for you" and then help them however they let you.

You can just be by their side. Without making a big deal about it you could throw in a commnet like if your eating just normaly ask if they want some and just let them know you understand.