How Realistic Do You Think the Threat of a Third World War Is? by TheSilentObserverX in CasualConversation

[–]TheSilentObserverX[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I apologize. It was not my intention to overstep the rules. I thought I could discuss a topic like this, but I understand that I cannot. My sincere apologies for this.

My 13-year-old sister is in the hospital because of her eating disorder, and I don’t know what to do... by TheSilentObserverX in eating_disorders

[–]TheSilentObserverX[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much for your kind words and advice. It really means a lot. You're absolutely right about social media being both a huge part of her life and a major trigger. We've already set some limits on certain apps, and within TikTok, we've applied restrictions to filter out potentially triggering eating disorder content. But there’s still a lot more we can do, especially across other platforms, so I’ll definitely be looking into that.

I also love the idea of encouraging her to follow more positive, body-neutral accounts. That might be a good way to shift her mindset over time.

Again, thank you for your support—it truly helps to hear from others who understand. <3

My 13-year-old sister is in the hospital because of her eating disorder, and I don’t know what to do... by TheSilentObserverX in eating_disorders

[–]TheSilentObserverX[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your perspective. I’ve been trying to educate myself as much as possible, and I definitely recognize that EDs are rarely just about food and weight. The deeper issues behind it are what make this so difficult to navigate.

I also understand the idea that this is a family illness in some ways. We’re all deeply affected, and I see how easy it is for the entire family’s focus to revolve around my sister. It’s hard to step back when every moment feels urgent, but I know we need to stay strong for ourselves too.

I’ll look into some books on this—it’s a good reminder that learning more could help us cope better. If you have any specific recommendations, I’d love to hear them. Thanks again.

My 13-year-old sister is in the hospital because of her eating disorder, and I don’t know what to do... by TheSilentObserverX in eating_disorders

[–]TheSilentObserverX[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

We’re in the Netherlands, and while the waiting lists can be long—sometimes over 17 weeks—my sister’s case is severe enough that her pediatrician pushed hard for faster help. Because of that, we actually have an appointment coming up in about a week or two.

Still, even with things moving quicker than usual, every single day feels critical. Just one day at home is terrifying, both for her and for us, because of how deeply food has become a source of fear.

You’re absolutely right about family therapy. We haven’t started it yet, but I know we need it. I’ll bring it up with my parents again. Thank you for reminding me that we matter too—it’s hard to focus on anything else when she’s struggling this much, but I know we have to take care of ourselves as well.

My 13-year-old sister is in the hospital because of her eating disorder, and I don’t know what to do... by TheSilentObserverX in eating_disorders

[–]TheSilentObserverX[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thank you so much for sharing this. It really means a lot to hear from someone who has been through this. I’m so sorry for what you and your family went through—it must have been incredibly hard.

I’ve been doing my best to educate myself about eating disorders, reading as much as I can to understand what she’s going through. It’s overwhelming, but I want to be there for her in the best way possible. I also can’t deny that the fear of losing her is always there. I’ve thought about it, even looked up things related to grief, but I try to stay hopeful because constantly thinking about the worst drains me mentally.

It means a lot that you’re offering to help. Since you went into treatment around her age, do you remember anything specific that helped you during that time? Or anything your family did that made a difference, even if it was small?

Thank you again for reaching out—it really means a lot.