How to get help

We would be happy to take your call and help in any way we can. Feel free to contact us with your concerns about eating patterns, body image or food choices. We will answer your questions and give you any necessary resources.

Consider speaking with another trusted adult, such as a family friend, relative, teacher, coach or minister. Ask for help. This person will be able to help you take the first steps toward seeking treatment. They also can help you speak to your loved one, letting them know a problem really exists. Our eating disorders experts also are able to help. Call us at 952-993-6200.

• Speak to them in a safe and private place.
• Point out what concerns you.
• Let your loved one know:
  • you are concerned about his or her health and well-being.
  • you miss the person he or she was before the eating disorder.
  • how the eating disorder has affected his or her personality, and how that has made you feel, such as, “I am very concerned about what is happening."
• Do not discuss your loved one’s weight or physical appearance. If you say, “You look so thin,” your loved one may take that as a compliment rather than a health concern.
• Allow your loved one time to respond to what you have said. Listening may be the best gift you can offer.
• Try to give your loved one resources in the community, such as a school nurse, counselor, eating disorder programs or Web sites on eating disorders. Offer to go with your loved one to speak to someone about it together.

Your loved one probably will ask you to keep this information a secret. Keep this information to yourself, but encourage them to confide in someone they trust. Talking to someone is very important. Eating disorders can be very harmful, and your loved one should seek professional help.

If your loved one is having any of these medical problems, notify someone immediately. Do not wait for his or her permission.

• Bingeing and purging several times per day
• Passing out or having severe chest, stomach or back pains
• Vomiting blood
• Talking about suicide

Eating disorders are very serious and can be life-threatening if left untreated. It is extremely important you talk to someone about what your loved one has told you. You may be feeling overwhelmed about your friend's struggle. It takes a lot of courage to approach someone. Your loved one is lucky to have someone as caring and brave as you.

More tips on how to talk with someone who may have an eating disorder.

More about the signs of an eating disorder.

Get help now. Call 952-993-6200. If this is an emergency, call 911.