Nearly 29 million Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime (ANAD, 2023). Recovery takes time, compassion, and support—but healing your relationship with food and your body is absolutely possible. Our practice provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to rediscover trust, nourishment, and peace with food.

What Is Disordered Eating?

Disordered eating refers to a pattern of irregular or distressing eating behaviors that may not meet the full criteria for a clinical eating disorder, yet still reflect an imbalance in one’s relationship with food, body image, or sense of self. These patterns may include chronic dieting, restrictive eating, bingeing, emotional eating, or engaging in compensatory behaviors such as over-exercising or purging.

While disordered eating is common, it often signals that someone is struggling beneath the surface—coping with emotional distress, anxiety, perfectionism, or a sense of loss of control. Over time, these patterns can affect physical health, mood, and overall well-being, and may progress into a more serious eating disorder if left unaddressed.

At Turn Leaf Wellness, we understand that disordered eating often emerges as a way to cope with emotional pain, stress, or a desire for control. These behaviors are rarely just about food—they are often linked to deeper experiences related to trauma, self-worth, or life transitions. Over time, disordered eating can impact physical health, emotional stability, and one’s overall ability to engage fully in life.

Supporting a Loved One

When a family member or loved one shows signs of disordered eating, it can be painful and confusing to know how to help. Compassionate, patient support can make a meaningful difference in their recovery.

Here are some ways to offer support:

• Lead with empathy and understanding. Approach conversations from a place of care, curiosity, and concern rather than judgment or attempts to control eating behaviors.

• Focus on emotional connection. Listen for what your loved one may be feeling rather than focusing solely on what or how much they are eating.

• Model balanced behaviors. Demonstrate kindness toward your own body and practice flexible, mindful nourishment.

• Encourage professional guidance. Disordered eating often requires the collaborative care of therapists, registered dietitians, and body-based practitioners.

• Be patient. Healing is a gradual process. Offering steady support, consistency, and reassurance helps your loved one feel safe to move toward change.