Holding onto Hope

We know that it can be extremely distressing and bewildering watching a loved one struggling with eating distress/disorder.  It is important that you also have the support you need. 

Although most people who experience an eating disorder need some professional support to get well, friends and family can also play a vital role in supporting recovery. 

Our skills for carers workshops will help you understand more about eating disorders and feel more confident in your knowledge; reduce anxiety; and improve communication. We are here to support you and your loved one on a journey to recovery.

These workshops, facilitated by our Counselling Lead and Group Worker, will develop your skills, and build your resilience. You’ll explore:

• Unhelpful beliefs about eating disorders
• How to cope with the caring role
• Motivational skills
• Reflective listening skills
• How to bring about change

They are open to anyone caring /supporting someone with an eating disorder. We don’t place restrictions on relationships so you might be a parent, grandparent, sibling, partner, cousin or friend.

The person you’re supporting doesn’t need to be in our services, but if you have any questions at all about whether this is right for you, please email us at the address below.

We run these regularly, please complete the registration below to be contacted with details of upcoming dates.

Counselling for family and friends

We can offer a counselling session for family and friends supporting a loved one with an eating disorder or distress.

This session is a safe, confidential space for you to explore your own feelings with one of our specialist counsellors.

To access this counselling please complete the registration below to be contacted with details.

Family and Friends additional resources 

Beat Eating Disorders

Eating disorders: a guide for friends and family
Worried about a friend or family member
Worried about a pupil
Worried about a colleague
Support for Carers

NHS

How to help someone with an eating disorder

Mind

How to help someone with an eating problem

National Eating Disorders

How to help a loved one

North East Counselling Services

For parents – North East Counselling Services Newcastle Gateshead (necounselling.org.uk)

Very Well Mind

How to help someone with an eating disorder