Advice for parents and carers
We’re here for you too
Working together for recovery
Does your loved one have an eating disorder?
We know just how terrifying it can be to become aware of symptoms that point to an eating disorder.
Witnessing a loved one, who was perhaps once so vibrant and free, now seeming distant and disconnected from their usual self is profoundly concerning. We are here to provide the support and care needed during this challenging time. And we’ll stick with you until you no longer need us.
Do any of these sound familiar?
- They’re isolating themselves from friends or family
- They have a preoccupation with food or eating
- They’re fearful of gaining weight, or are pursuing weight loss through food restriction, exercise or purging
- They may be very ritualistic with food, or have rigid routines
- They’re exhibiting secretive behaviour, perhaps concealing things
- They’re exhibiting low confidence, low self-esteem, or anxiety
- They have a distorted perception of their body shape or weight
- They’re not responding to hunger cues
- They’re struggling with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or OCD
We’re here to talk through it
This might be your first time reaching out about a loved one’s eating disorder, or, you might feel like you’ve had lots of support before. Wherever you find yourself, we’ll meet you there.
Orri is rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC which puts our treatment in the top 1% in the UK.
Caring for someone is a unique and challenging role
Caring for someone with an eating disorder can be incredibly challenging, as it not only requires a lot from us, but also touches our own vulnerabilities and fears.
There can be a lot of tension as we witness those we love going through hardship, and at times we may feel powerless in helping them. We may notice feelings of grief, confusion, fear, or guilt, and this can negatively impact our relationships.
People talk of eating disorders as “family illnesses”, referring to the fact that the experience of the eating disorder is not just isolated to the individual with the diagnosis, but rather, impacts all family members in different ways.
We believe that involving parents and carers is incredibly helpful for recovery because the eating disorder exists outside of treatment, impacting areas of a person’s life. You have a unique opportunity here to support them.
“From our first meeting I knew my child would be in the safest hands. Orri gave my daughter the confidence and strength to face recovery. I will be forever grateful.”
– Parent
How we’ll support your loved one
Day Treatment
An intensive programme, working with our expert clinicians in our beautiful London clinic.
Outpatient Services
Specialist one-to-one therapy sessions with our expert clinicians.
Continued support in recovery
All clients are invited to join our free, monthly alumni group. This group is led by one of Orri’s expert clinicians and offers previous clients of Orri the opportunity to come together and receive support as they navigate life in recovery.
How we’ll support you
Family Therapy
Family therapy at Orri is a profound opportunity to reconnect, come together, and draw upon your unique strengths and values as a family. It offers a supportive space where each member can share their experiences and feelings through open and honest communication facilitated by an expert Family Therapist.
Individual Carer Psychotherapy
Our Individual Carer Psychotherapy sessions are confidential and safe spaces for you to explore your experience and your experience of your loved one’s eating disorder with a qualified and experienced Family or Systemic Therapist.
Parent & Carer Support Group
Our fortnightly support group offers education and practical guidance on how to support a loved one living with an eating disorder, whilst ensuring you are caring for yourself. The group discussion is based around themes that arise organically for attendees.