The Informal Carer Experience of Contributing to the Management of Eating Disorders

Carer support evolves over the trajectory of an eating disorder. It can start with close others, such as the family, noticing the first signs of the illness. These trigger help seeking. It may be a difficult step to negotiate because the individuals themselves may consider themselves to have neither a problem nor one that they want to admit to. Accessing help can also be difficult because of the shortage of affordable and/or accessible services. Carer reactions to the illness can vary, and negotiating the process of providing effective support is complex. The burdensome nature of the support that may be needed may impact on the mental health of the carer. There are also economic and social consequences which impact on the quality of life as the tasks can involve providing meal and/or medical and social support over a protracted time course. The complexities of the lived experience of caring for people with an eating disorder have not been fully considered, but a common complaint is that information and support for their needs is insufficient. Potential health, well-being, and economic gains may be better obtained by providing more support to carers. In this chapter, we discuss some of the strategies that can optimize this form of support.