The role of friends
Because of the anosognosia of mental illness, those predisposed to eating disorders are often the last to know their illness has started to return. I believe anyone with a history of eating disorder mental illness needs to have family and friends and medical professionals there as an early warning system.
We often confuse "trust" and "independence" when it comes to mental illness. We think it is "mistrust" and "controlling" to be aware and speaking openly about these issues. I look forward to a time when it is as normal and loving to observe signs of mental health as it is to put one's hand to the forehead to check temperature or to notice someone wheezing. No guilt, no blame, no waiting!
Friends, too, need a place in the picture. I was glad to see this - Mental health advocates, patients urge bringing friends on board during care and hope to see more!
We often confuse "trust" and "independence" when it comes to mental illness. We think it is "mistrust" and "controlling" to be aware and speaking openly about these issues. I look forward to a time when it is as normal and loving to observe signs of mental health as it is to put one's hand to the forehead to check temperature or to notice someone wheezing. No guilt, no blame, no waiting!
Friends, too, need a place in the picture. I was glad to see this - Mental health advocates, patients urge bringing friends on board during care and hope to see more!
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