It was clear after Amy Ozier’s last episode on the podcast that we needed her back again. This episode is meant to be a resource for couples because there are so many unique factors that come into play when figuring out how to support a significant other through an eating disorder. It’s hard enough to simply be in a relationship even without disordered eating or body image issues also being a factor. What you’ll hear repeated in this episode is just how important communication and creating safety are for both parties.
In this conversation, Amy and Chrissy share how attachment styles come into play, how social anxiety impacts moments of connection, how much you really need to educate yourself on eating disorders, and why it’s so important to take care of yourself as a caregiver.
For anyone struggling with an eating disorder, this episode will be something you can share with your significant other to help them understand some of your challenges and feelings. And for the supporter, this will give you some insight into what you can do to help them when possible.
In this episode, we cover:
- Relationship challenges that are caused by eating disorders
- What kinds of resources are available to support a significant other through an eating disorder
- How attachment styles can play out within relationships where ED is present
- How the significant other is impacted by eating disorder behaviors
- The best way to be a support to a partner with an eating disorder or body image issues
- The mental and emotional toll eating disorders have on both parties
- How treatment options also impact a relationship
- What to know about the window of tolerance with eating disorders and relationships
- How social anxiety affects moments of connection for couples
- What the significant other battling ED truly needs to hear in tough moments
- The importance of having a compassionate witness and coregulator
- How much you really need to educate yourself on eating disorders
- How incorporating food neutral language can be beneficial
- How humor and other intentional breaks from the eating disorder help the nervous system
- The best way to encourage professional help for the spouse with an eating disorder
- Why it’s so important to take care of yourself as a caregiver
For those of you battling an eating disorder, fighting for freedom, and struggling to connect with your loved one, we talk about a few of those things that can help bridge the divide. And we explore ways both partners can feel supported and empowered during this season of life.
Lean into Jesus in eating disorder recovery—together as significant others and as children of the Lord. God is present and hope is found in Him. If you have questions, you’re always welcome to email us at: admin@findingbalance.com
More About Amy Ozier
Amy is a child of God, wife to a beloved hubby, and mom of three very busy but super teens (whoops, one is an adult now!). She is the Director of Adolescent and Family Based Feeding and Recovery, and trauma-informed somatic nutrition therapist under the blessed direction of Tracy Brown. She is humbled to witness for those experiencing eating disorders and their caretakers. Through professional and personal experience, her longing has been to contend for the faith by helping those suffering from eating disorders find true freedom.
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Links & Mentioned Resources:
How Do You Help A Loved One With An Eating Disorder – NEDA
Life Without Ed by Jenni Schaefer
Feed Yourself by Leslie Schilling
Breaking Free From Body Shame by Jess Connolly
Feeding Yourself With Love and Good Sense by Ellyn Satter
Perimenopause and the Satter Eating Competence Model article by Amy Ozier
Peaceful Eating Community with Tracy Brown
FREEdom Blog “Reflections” article
F.E.A.S.T. (Secular support for families supporting a loved one)
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Related Episodes:
Supporting Your Child Through an Eating Disorder
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Connect with Amy:
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FINDINGBALANCE:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
SpeakPipe – send us a voice message
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CHRIST-CENTERED RESOURCES TO HELP YOU FIND FREEDOM
Eating Issues Test: Not sure where you stand with eating issues? Take a test
The Daily Vitamin eDevo: A free devotional with bite-sized truth emailed 5 days a week
Community Groups: Find connection with Bible study and prayer groups
Christian Treatment Finder: Connecting you with Christian providers experienced in treating eating issues.
Lasting Freedom Online Course: A Christ-centered, non-diet course to work through false beliefs about food and weight so you can live free from disordered eating and body image issues.
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CREDITS:
Interlude music by “Hotham” – Morning Thoughts
Intro music by “MokkaMusic” – Old Jeans (Funk)
Wrap-up music by Jesse Quinn – Christian Instrumental
Production & Editing by Leah Bryant Co
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The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prescribe a particular course of action. If you have, or suspect you may have, an eating disorder, please consult your healthcare provider. If you desire to receive faith-based care, visit ChristianTreatmentFinder.com to browse professionals with a Kingdom campaign against eating disorders.