Getting help for an eating disorder
If you think you may have an eating disorder, see a GP (doctor) as soon as you can. A GP will ask about your eating habits and how you’re feeling, plus check your overall health and weight. They may refer you to an eating disorder specialist or team of specialists. It can be very hard to admit you have a problem and ask for help. It may make things easier if you bring a friend or loved one with you to your appointment. You can also talk in confidence to an adviser from eating disorders charity Beat (www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk) by calling their adult helpline on 0808 801 0677 or youth helpline on 0808 801 0711
Warning signs of an eating disorder in someone else It can be very difficult to identify that a loved one or friend has developed an eating disorder. Warning signs to look out for include: dramatic weight loss lying about how much they’ve eaten, when they’ve eaten, or their weight eating a lot of food very fast going to the bathroom a lot after eating exercising a lot avoiding eating with others cutting food into small pieces or eating very slowly wearing loose or baggy clothes to hide their weight loss What causes eating disorders? We do not know exactly what causes eating disorders. You may be more likely to get an eating disorder if: you or a member of your family has a history of eating disorders, depression, or alcohol or drug misuse you’ve been criticised for your eating habits, body shape or weight you’re really worried about being slim, particularly if you also feel pressure from society or your job, for example, ballet dancers, models or athletes you have anxiety, low self-esteem, an obsessive personality or are a perfectionist you’ve been sexually abused
Treatment for eating disorders
You can recover from an eating disorder, but it may take time and recovery will be different for everyone. If you’re referred to an eating disorder specialist or team of specialists, they’ll be responsible for your care. They should talk to you about the support you might need, such as for other conditions you have, and include this in your treatment plan. Your treatment will depend on the type of eating disorder you have, but usually includes a talking therapy. You may also need regular health checks if your eating disorder is having an impact on your physical health. Your treatment may also involve working through a guided self-help programme if you have bulimia or binge eating disorder. Most people will be offered individual therapy, but some may be offered group therapy.
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker