How family therapy can help young people: Eating Disorders Awareness Week

23 Feb 26

As part of Eating Disorders Awareness Week, we spoke with Rubi, a Systemic Psychotherapist and Family Therapist within HPFT’s Eating Disorders Service for Children and Young People.

She shares how open communication in families can make a meaningful difference.

A woman wearing a patterned top and an NHS lanyard is standing indoors and smiling, beside an added blue graphic panel that reads ‘Eating Disorders Awareness Week’.

What does your role involve?

“I work with a young person and their family to explore their relationships and how they communicate. Together, we reflect on what is helping in their recovery and what may be less helpful.”

“Seeing families support each other through eating disorder recovery and watching their relationships grow stronger is incredibly rewarding.”

Are there signs of an eating disorder that may go overlooked? What should people look out for?

“If a young person is suddenly avoiding certain foods, choosing to eat alone, becoming fixated on specific routines, or only eating particular types of ‘healthy’ foods, these can be signs of an eating disorder.

“If you notice changes, start by having a conversation with your child about what is happening in their life that might explain these changes. Communication is key.”

What advice would you give to someone who is struggling or is worried about someone else?

“I would look out for if there are any patterns emerging. If you’re feeling concerned about someone’s eating, or you’ve observed visible changes such as significant weight loss or them looking generally unwell, then reach out to your GP.”

Need support?

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, help is available:

Contact your GP
Call NHS 111 and select option 2 or contact the HPFT 24/7 Single Point of Access (SPA) mental health helpline on freephone 0800 6444 101

In an emergency, where there is an immediate risk of harm, please call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.

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How family therapy can help young people: Eating Disorders Awareness Week