Analogies and Metaphors

How can analogies and metaphors help?

Just as comedians make us laugh about things that are difficult to talk about and help us focus on the right rather than the wrong things, with metaphors and analogies we can make eating disorders understandable, reduce parents’ self-blame, and help them focus their strengths in a way that facilitates their child’s recovery.  Children or teens may be unable to appreciate the real danger they are in because they are focused on the benefits of the eating disorder and are fearful of being without it. Analogies and metaphors can help them shift their focus and see that there is a way out.

Here’s an example from our book.

The Leaky Raft

Can you imagine that your child is drowning in a massive sea and has only a poorly constructed raft to hold onto to keep herself above water? Although she knows the raft is leaking she convinces herself that it is the reason why she is still alive. You know that the water is carrying your child toward a dangerous waterfall not far away. A rescue helicopter is sent to dangle a rope for her to grab, but she has to let go of the raft to reach the rope. She has to risk losing the only thing buoying her up and all she can see is a massive sea around her. She may refuse to do so, especially if she is afraid of heights. She will think, “What if I miss the rope?” If she refuses the rope, then the rescuers will be bewildered and may even get angry with her.

When parents appreciate how fearful their child is about recovery, they don’t find her or his behaviour so bewildering and are not as likely to be angry. At the same time, when they see the danger their child is in, they can find ways to help.

We invite you to share your own analogies and metaphors here.