Eating Disorders / Question
Published: March 3, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I think my best friend might have an eating disorder. Everybody says that she looks much thinner. Her dad always tells her to eat until they fight. She is never hungry and all food look very unappetizing to her. Could it be an eating disorder?
Signed: Eating Disorder
Dear Eating Disorder,
Yes, it could be an eating disorder. We cannot give a definite diagnosis over the Internet, but a dramatic weight loss and not eating are two good signs of an eating disorder.
It is good that you care about your friend enough to notice that she may be having a problem. However, now that you have identified an area of concern, you needs to get a professional involved in dealing with the situation. If your friend has an eating disorder, she needs professional help and guidance from a doctor, psychiatrist and counselor. This is something a friend cannot do by himself or herself. A friend can be there for support, but not treatment!
Look at the question, "Does My Friend Have An Eating Disorder?" for more information on symptoms, treatment and getting professional help. Talk to her parents or a school nurse about your concerns ASAP.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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