Starved | Page 63

STARVED honest conversation. Some common communication blockers to be aware of before opening dialogue with your daughter are interrupting, ignoring, sarcasm, name-calling, insulting, judging, blaming, and stating your opinion as fact. Open communication in the family lowers the chance of anxious or negative feelings being expressed or repressed in negative ways. Preaching to your daughter while she is hurting could build a wall and prevent her from being honest with you. Consider hearing her out and allowing her to express her emotions. Encouraging your daughter to be aware of her feelings and to express them to you openly will empower honesty and vulnerability, and it is beneficial for you to set an example by being open with her about your own feelings. Build a Strong Relationship Your relationship with your daughter is such an important aspect of her finding healing and freedom-it actually can help her realize who God created her to be. By providing her with a foundation of love and open communication, you help her develop confidence and an understanding of how to have healthy relationships with others. Effective communication is vital on your daughter's path to freedom from the eating disorder, and investing in your relationship with her will help her sustain that freedom. It's very important to communicate your love to your daughter by expressing how unique and exceptional she is in specific areas of her life. Identify and relay to her the strengths and talents you see in her, and take time to encourage her in those areas. Provide verbal encouragement as well as continued training and classes to help her develop he ȁ