Abstract
Eating disorders are serious and complicated mental disorders associated with physical, psychological and social disturbances. Such disorders additionally have a significant impact on home and family life, and research demonstrates that carers of individuals with eating disorders experience high levels of distress and perceived burden, and have high levels of unmet needs. However, the important role of family members and carers in the support and treatment of people with eating disorders is being increasingly recognized. There is evidence to support the utility of family-based therapies for eating disorders, and skills based training programs have been designed to help meet the needs of carers. This review will explore the difficulties and needs of carers, and will examine the ways in which both the needs of carers and patients can be met through various interventions.