When Lily Allen recently admitted that there was a time when she was throwing up her food, many were surprised to hear that this body-proud celebrity had also fallen victim to this gripping and life-threatening condition. She said she wasn’t happy, even though she was able to fit into designer clothes—and sadly, this kind of intense dissatisfaction with their bodies is often why women who are able to lose weight, are unable to stop.
From topping up milk bottles with water, wearing excessively baggy clothes, a rapid drop in weight, or even overeating—with so many secretive and sometimes ‘normal’ symptoms, it can be very hard to tell when to suspect a loved one may have an eating disorder. It happens to celebrities, it happens to mothers, and it happens to young women; nobody is spared. And it’s not a topic that should be approached without caution.
If you do suspect somebody close of having an eating disorder, here are some simple suggestions of how you can help:
Observe
Often eating disorders are linked with severe emotional stress. Without being invasive, try to observe what the person does, and not what they say they do. Are they spending extensive hours at the gym? Do they often skip meals, or do they eat an excessive amount? Are they sensitive about the topic of food?
Listen
The worst approach is an aggressive one. Rather than quiz them about their eating habits, why not ask them how they are? Suggest something relaxing that you can do together, and let them know that you genuinely care about them. By offering your support, the real trigger may become apparent and could be more important to address than the behaviours themselves.
Stay Committed
It’s easy to be a friend when times are good, but often it is when you’re needed most that your friendship can also be the most challenging. Mood swings are a common symptom of an eating disorder, and if your friend is rude or hurtful, let it go. They need to know that you’re there for them no matter what, and that your concern is coming from a genuine, committed and caring place.
Take it Seriously
Most eating disorders are linked to depression, low self esteem or are the result of a life-changing incident. These are not issues that can be typically solved by family or friends. Recognise the seriousness of what you are potentially dealing with, and be realistic about what support you can offer.
Seek Professional Advice
There comes a time when friendship alone may not be the best form of support, and by visiting The Butterfly Foundation website, it is reassuring to know that there is help available. If you are concerned about a friend or relative, call a counselor or mental health professional, who may be able to advise you on how to suggest the need for professional assistance. If you, or a person you know, is suffering an eating disorder, the sooner professional help is received, the better.
For more information visit: https://www.thebutterflyfoundation.org.au/
