Eating Disorders
Spotting an eating disorder in others
Source: NHS
In this topic (7)
It can often be very difficult toidentify that a loved one or friend has developed an eating disorder.
Warning signs to look out for include:
- missing meals
- complaining of being fat, even though they have a normal weight or are underweight
- repeatedly weighing themselves and looking at themselves in the mirror
- making repeated claims that they've already eaten, or they'll shortly be going out to eat somewhere else and avoiding eating at home
- cooking big or complicated meals for other people, but eating little or none of the food themselves
- only eating certain low-calorie foods in your presence, such as lettuce or celery
- feeling uncomfortable or refusing to eat in public places, such as at arestaurant
- the use of "pro-anorexia" websites
It can be difficult to know what to do if you're concerned about a friend or family member. It's not unusual for someone with an eating disorder to be secretive and defensive about their eating and their weight, and they may deny being unwell.
They also have a designated youth helpline on 0345 634 7650.
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