Do you suspect a dance friend might be struggling with disordered eating or an eating disorder? It can be challenging to know how to help without saying the wrong thing, but avoidance can make things worse. In this episode, Rachel Fine breaks down practical and compassionate ways to support a friend while respecting boundaries and encouraging professional help.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to educate yourself about disordered eating before approaching a friend

✅ Picking the right time, place, and language for a sensitive conversation

✅ Using empathy, compassion, and relatability without sounding accusatory

✅ Why giving resources—not advice—is the most helpful way to support

✅ When and how to raise concerns with trusted adults or studio leadership

📅 Perfect for: dancers who want to support a friend, parents or guardians seeking guidance, and educators or studio staff aiming to foster a safe and supportive environment.

📖 Read the full blog: https://dancenutrition.com/eating-disorders-help-a-friend/

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Timestamps ⬇️ (Skip to the section you need!)

0:00 – Introduction: Concerned About a Friend
Addressing what to do if you suspect a dance friend is struggling with food or body image.

0:14 – A Dietitian For Dancers
Rachel Fine introduces herself and her role supporting dancers’ nutrition and wellbeing.

0:48 – Shifting Focus to Friends
Moving from personal tips to guidance for supporting a friend with potential struggles.

1:18 – Fear of Bringing Up Food Topics
Most dancers and parents worry about “saying the wrong thing” and avoiding the topic.

1:46 – Disordered Eating Spectrum
Distinguishing diagnosed eating disorders from disordered eating and the spectrum of experiences.

2:31 – Vulnerability in Dance Culture
Comparative mindset and restrictive messages are common in dance culture.

2:54 – Your Role: Dos and Don’ts
Introducing important guidelines for supporting a friend effectively.

3:10 – Educate Yourself First
Learn the signs, risks, and behaviors of disordered eating before approaching a friend.

3:46 – Red Flags & Resources
Spot warning signs like social withdrawal and access credible, expert information.

4:44 – Choosing the Right Time & Place
Tips for private, distraction-free settings to discuss sensitive topics.

5:41 – Expressing Concerns with Empathy
Use “I” statements, avoid accusatory language, and listen without judgment.

6:19 – Sharing Experiences Safely
Relate to dance culture pressures without mentioning weight or calorie targets.

7:00 – Offer Resources, Not Advice
Encourage professional help from RDNs or mental health practitioners rather than giving advice.

8:01 – Respect Privacy & Boundaries
Understand recovery is personal; suggest workshops or guidance when appropriate.

9:00 – Bottom Line: Compassion & Support
Supporting a friend requires empathy, education, and listening, but you cannot solve another dancer’s struggles alone.

Rachel Fine, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Sports Nutritionist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and Certified Counselor of Intuitive Eating, works with dancers to help them build supportive relationships with both food and body.

Disclaimer: This is produced for informational purposes only. This information is general, not specific to you. The information in this podcast does not substitute for medical advice. The viewer assumes full responsibility for consulting a qualified health professional regarding health conditions or concerns, and before starting a new diet or health program.