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 youth minister. Voice your concerns, and 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 parents, letting them know a problem really exists.

1. Speak to your friend in a safe and private place.
2. Point out to your friend the things that concern you.
3. Let your friend know:
   • you are concerned about his or her health and well-being.
   • you miss the person they were before the eating disorder came into his or her life.
   • how the eating disorder has affected your friend’s personality, and how that has made you feel, such as, “I am very concerned about what is happening to you. I don’t like how you have changed.”
4. Do not discuss your friend’s weight or physical appearance. If you say, “You look so thin,” your friend may take that as a compliment rather than a health concern.
5. Allow your friend time to respond to what you have said. Listening may be the best gift you can offer.
6. Try to give your friend resources in the community, such as a school nurse, school counselor, eating disorder programs or Web sites on eating disorders. Offer to go with your friend to speak to an adult.

Your friend probably will ask you to keep this information a secret. Keep this information to yourself, but encourage them to confide in a trusted adult. Talking to an adult is very important. Eating disorders can be very harmful, and your friend should seek professional help.

Be sure to listen for the following medical complaints your friend may be experiencing. If he or she is having any of these problems, notify an adult immediately. Do not wait for your friend’s permission.

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

Eating disorders are very serious and can be life-threatening if left untreated. It is extremely important you talk to an adult about what your friend has told you. It also may be a good idea for you to talk to a school counselor or another adult with whom you are comfortable, as you may be overwhelmed with feelings about your friend's struggle. It takes a lot of courage to approach someone. Your friend is lucky to have a friend as caring and brave as you.