How should I approach a friend with an eating disorder?
First, understand what you CAN’T do: you can’t force an anorexic to eat, and you can’t stop a bulimic from purging. Eating disorders are complex and emotionally-based, and your friend needs professional help. However, you CAN be supportive! Lovingly express your concerns, and be a good listener. You may not understand how she’s feeling, but you can still be encouraging. Don’t be pushy or condescending—remember, recovery is hard, but it is possible.
What if I really am overweight and need to lose weight?
Having an eating disorder is not the same as being “on a diet.” Dieting is about losing a little bit of weight in a HEALTHY way so that your body feels as good on the outside as you already feel on the inside. An eating disorder is about the belief that your self-worth is based on your weight and appearance… it’s about seeking approval through NEGATIVE attention… and it’s about seeking to control life through controlling what you eat. An eating disorder is not a diet.
I’m not sure if my friend has an eating disorder, and when I ask her she gets angry. What should I do?
Express your concerns in a loving manner. Be gentle and caring, and listen without accusing your friend or offering unwelcome advice. It’s not your job to make her better or dictate what she should do. Don’t be pushy, rude, or threatening; and don’t pretend to understand if you’ve never had an eating disorder. Just listen and be a trustworthy friend. However, for someone in immediate physical danger (i.e. dehydration, fainting, black-outs), seek help right away!
Is it ok to have an eating disorder if you take vitamins and other supplements to stay “healthy”?
There is nothing “healthy” about an eating disorder! Most nutrition must come from food in order for your body to use it. Other vitamins and supplements should be taken in addition to a balanced diet. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can have very serious effects on your body, but there are other dangers to not eating enough as well: such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, and low heart rate. All of these can cause seizures or sudden heart failure.
How can I show my friend she doesn’t need to lose weight?
You can’t force your friend to eat or convince her that she doesn’t need to lose weight, but you can be a source of support! Don’t talk about food or weight, but be a good listener. Encourage her to focus on positive things about herself, to try new and fun activities, and to ask for help when she needs it. Give her a hug, pay her a compliment, and remind her that her health is important!
How can I have a positive perspective on my weight and body?
Everyone should feel good about themselves! Remember that we are all different, and we are supposed to be that way! It’s amazing to realize that everyone is beautiful, including you! Fight negative self-talk by repeating truth to yourself—say self-affirmations, and ask for help from people you love when you need it! Keep a list of things you like about yourself, and keep away from things that are discouraging. Stay active, get plenty of rest, eat right, and remember that being healthy is positive!
What are signs of anorexia? Some symptoms of anorexia are:
<> Dramatic weight loss in a short period of time
<> Obsession with calories, food, weight, or exercise
<> Low self-esteem, feelings of worthlessness
<> Purging, or use of diet pills, laxatives, etc.
<> Chronic headaches, dizziness, or fainting
<> Chronic fatigue and poor sleeping patterns
<> Depression or mood swings
Remember, someone does NOT have to be underweight to suffer from an eating disorder. Also, this is NOT the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder… a psychiatrist or doctor can diagnose an eating disorder. If you are concerned, please seek a counselor or other professional immediately!
Can someone with anorexia get better?
YES, someone with an eating disorder can get better! There are many treatment options: group therapy, individual counseling, medication prescribed by a psychiatrist or doctor, out-patient care, or in-patient care at a treatment center. Recovery can be hard and take some time, but remember: you CAN find help, you CAN get better, and you DESERVE to do both!
What happens to your body with anorexia? There are many bodily dangers associated with anorexia. For example:
<> Malnutrition causes you to feel constantly tired and be susceptible to illness
<> Dehydration makes you weak, dizzy, and can result in organ failure
<> Muscle atrophy is caused by your body feeding off of itself
<> Dry skin, brittle nails, weak teeth, and hair loss because of inadequate nutrition
<> Disruptions in blood pressure and blood sugar levels can result in brain damage and organ failure
<> Disruptions in hormone levels and loss of your menstrual cycle can result in infertility
All of these are very serious, and can result in death! Eating disorders have the highest death rate of all mental illnesses.