Facilitate a conversation -- start talking

Watch to see how Gabriella initiated conversation and directed Elizabeth to mental health support.
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Facilitate a conversation -- start talking

Discussing personal issues and body concerns can be awkward and difficult.

In this case, Gabriella showed respect and concern by:

• finding an opportunity to speak to Elizabeth in private
• listening to Elizabeth’s point of view
• encouraging Elizabeth to seek help, and offering specific details of help services

Evaluate and Revise and revisit

Student-athletes with eating disorders may say nothing is wrong or may be embarrassed about the conversation. You may feel uncomfortable, but don’t let that deter you. An initial discussion may not result in immediate change, but the person may choose to act at a later stage or continue the conversation with others. Evaluate the conversation and considering revising and revisiting the topic in the future. Your actions may still make a difference.

Gabriella: Hey, can I talk to you about something?
Elizabeth: Yeah, what's up? I only have a minute, though.
Gabriella: I notice how busy you've been, and how stressed and tired you seem.
Elizabeth: I am. This semester is killing me. And, on top of that, I'm training so hard.
Gabriella: I notice how hard you've been training, and it seems like you're not eating as much either. Do you think nutrition could be a problem?
Elizabeth: I don't know. I've never felt like this before. And, on top of that, I can't seem to lose any weight. At first my times were getting faster, but now they're just getting slower, and I'm just really frustrated because I can't seem to get fast.
Gabriella: Have you ever talked to anybody about how you're feeling?
Elizabeth: Not really.
Gabriella: You know, you could go to the counseling center and talk to a nutritionist, or a counselor. I know some runners who have gone there, and they keep everything confidential.
Elizabeth: I don't know. I guess I never really had a problem but maybe.
Gabriella: Do you know where it is? Do you want me to take you there?
Elizabeth: I'd really like that.
Gabriella: I was kind of nervous to talk to you about this, but I'm glad we did.
Elizabeth: Me too.
Gabriella: Good. Is it okay if I check in on you a couple of times? I just really care about you.
Elizabeth: Definitely. I care about you too.

Gabriella and Elizabeth - Transcript