An eating disorder is about feelings and NOT about food and often links very closely with low self esteem. They can make people very ill physically and mentally (find out more below) and in some cases lead to death.
An eating disorder has no barriers when it comes to age or whether the person is male or female. Although more females suffer from eating disorders males still suffer in the exactly the same way.
My friend has an eating disorder - what can I do?
A lot of young people try to hide the fact that they have an eating problem. If you have noticed something is wrong with a friend, other people probably will have too. Try talking to your friend but remember it isn’t all your responsibility.
- If you are finding it difficult to support your friend – tell them about this website.
- Encourage your friend to speak to an adult that they feel they can trust.
- It may be tough and your friend may often get angry and frustrated – remember it is the ‘eating disorder’ that is making them feel like this.
- Encourage your friend to get help – by helping them realise that they’re not alone you have been a really good friend!
What is binge eating?
Sometimes people binge on food because they’re unhappy or lonely and don’t feel in control of their lives. By bingeing on certain foods that person may feel good for a short while but then they will panic and feel out of control. They will feel the need to rid themselves of the food they have eaten. They then feel ashamed of their behaviour and they feel they need to binge again to feel good.
Compulsive eating is a way people try to cope with things they feel they have no control over. The difference with compulsive or binge eating disorders is that the person will not purge to rid themselves of the food and without doubt gain a large amount of weight if this continues.
What damage can eating disorders cause?
Anorexia Nervosa can lead to heart problems, bowel problems, muscle weakness, poor circulation, breathing problems, lack of concentration, poor hair and skin conditions, damage to teeth. Periods may stop and if this continues may lead to infertility in later life. It can make people feel really low and not want to be around others.
Osteoporosis is something associated with older people but it can develop early if someone starves their body of the nutrients. This is a serious condition and one that can be halted but not cured. People die as a result of Anorexia Nervosa.
Bulimia Nervosa can also lead to heart problems, bowel problems, muscle weakness, stomach and digestive problems. Irregular heart beat, dehydration, irregular periods, poor hair and skin condition, swollen cheeks, dental problems. It can make people feel really low and not want to be around others. People die as a result of Bulimia Nervosa.
Where can I get help?
Remember lots of young people suffer from eating disorders but with the right help they can overcome them. Sometimes the biggest step forward is to accept that there is a problem: “I have an eating disorder” and “I need help to get better!”
B-eat (beating eating disorders) helps people of all ages get the help they need. Visit their website www.b-eat.co.uk or call the Youth Line, 0845 634 7650. They can call you back if you have trouble paying your phone bill.
There is a local Support Group called SEED Eating Disorders Support Services.
If you are over 16 there are services that you can access, but even if you are younger they will be able to let you have information to help. Visit their website www.seedeatingdisorders.co.uk or call the help line (01482) 718130
It may help to speak to counsellors to find out how to get help by calling Child Line for free on 0800 1111.
People who feel alone or depressed can call the Samaritans 24 hrs a day on 08457 909090 or email jo@samaritans.org.uk
