What is the key objective when working with a student who has an eating disorder?

When working with a student who has an eating disorder, the key objective is to stress the importance of doing their best, rather than emphasizing perfection. This approach helps to create a supportive and understanding environment that can encourage healthy habits and self-acceptance. Focusing on doing their best alleviates the pressure to achieve perfection, which can be detrimental to students struggling with eating disorders. It reinforces the idea that mistakes and setbacks are part of the learning process and that their worth is not tied to their performance or appearance.

Promoting a mentality that values effort rather than perfection can lead to improved self-esteem and a healthier relationship with food and body image. This supportive framework is essential for recovery and helps create a safe space where the student can thrive, reducing the shame or anxiety that may accompany an eating disorder. By fostering a growth mindset, students are more likely to engage positively with their treatment and develop resilience in the face of challenges.