giving ED books to people who dont have EDs

[openmyeyes]

I bought a book on EDs a while ago, in oh four, Bronte's Story.

I found it extremely triggering in parts, and need to remind myself that is WHY I dont want to have anorexia. A lot of books written by people who have had EDs can be triggering.

I gave that book to my mum. And it gave her a greater understanding of EDs and what I was going through. Since then, she has been equal with me in fighting this, and not turning it on me but turning on the anorexia. I cry with happiness (and am almost crying now) when I remember the times when she has sat down with me and asked me "what's triggered this. What are you thinking. lets work through it and find the truth under the eating behaviours." She is so wonderful.

I think that when we have a person around us - family or friend - who wants to help but doesnt understand, we should give them the books that we find triggering and let them read about what goes on inside of us.

[RznSun]

I agree, giving our family and friends education about the topic of eating disorders is important. And it feels good when they are willing to take the step and get educated. Books can provide them with the support that they need, cause this disease is so hard on family and friends also. There is nothing wrong with getting educated.

[Levena]

:hugonAlisia:hugoff

Great idea. I've read Bronte's Story too and also found it triggering, but somewhat useful in the knowledge that if someone that ill can recover then so can I. I guess without some of the information that makes it clear how badly Bronte struggled then her recovery might seem less remarkable somehow (recovery period is remarkable, but this just highlights the point more dramatically). Giving the book to someone without ED who is a support person is a great idea for that reason.
I actually read my friend's :lubdub copy of this book as she bought it to try and get a better understanding of me, she was hesitant to loan it to me though as she was even worried it might trigger me. She has shown much more understanding since reading this and a few other ED books.
I think I might give it to my husband to read. Thank you :happy

:lubdub levie