We must be very patient and understanding. It's important to understand that a person with an eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia isn't voluntarily refusing help; rather, the illness "hijacks" them and impairs their ability to recognize the costs of the disorder and the need for treatment.

If the person is in a very serious physical condition, which poses a risk to their life, or threatens self-harm or suicide, the possibility of involuntary admission should be considered . If that is not the case, what we should do is:

• Remember that the person is dominated by the disorder and has difficulty being aware of their situation.
• Be patient and understand that helping the person become aware of what is happening to them takes time.
• Avoid pressuring her, judging her, or making comments that might make her feel guilty.
• Avoid making comments about what they eat or don't eat, their weight, whether they have lost or gained weight, etc.
• Try to connect with the more emotional side and encourage the person to share how they feel, what worries them, their fears, their anxieties... It is from here that we can help them become aware.
• Remind them that the decision to receive help and regain control of their life is theirs.
• Tell him that he will always have your support and affection and that you will team up together to overcome the eating disorder.
• Be honest about your emotions and feelings and express them in a respectful and calm manner.