Anorexia is characterized by a significant weight loss resulting from excessive dieting. People are motivated by the strong desire to be thin and a fear of becoming obese. Anorexics consider themselves to be fat, no matter what their actual weight is.

Focusing on calories and losing weight is their way of blocking out feelings and emotions. For them, it's easier to diet then it is to deal with their problems directly. The anorexics usually deny that anything is wrong. They usually resist any attempts to help them because the idea of therapy is seen only as a way to force them to eat.

Some Signs and Symptoms

• Noticeable weight loss
  
• Becoming withdrawn
  
• Excessive exercise
  
• Obsession with food, calories, recipes
  
• Excuses for not eating meals or unusual eating habits
  
• Complaining of being "too fat", even when thin
  
• Depression, irritability, mood swings
  
• Very secretive about eating patterns
  
  
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Bulimia nervosa

Bulimia is characterized by a cycle of binge eating followed by purging to try and rid the body of unwanted calories. Purging methods usually involve vomiting and laxative abuse. Other forms of purging can involve excessive exercise, fasting, use of diuretics, diet pills and enemas. Unlike anorexics, bulimics do realize they have a problem and are more likely to seek help.

Some Signs and Symptoms

• Binge eating and secretive eating
  
• Bathroom visits after eating
  
• Vomiting
  
• Laxative, diet pill or diuretic abuse
  
• Weight fluctuations (usually with 10-15 lb range)
  
• Mood swings and depression
  
• Harsh exercise regimes
  
• Self-worth determined by weight
  
• Fear of not being able to stop eating voluntarily

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Where to get help

• Your GP or practice nurse. They may be able to refer you to specialist professionals such as those suggested below.
  
• Psychiatrist – treats emotional disorders using psychological techniques
  
• Dietician or Nutritionist – can help to regain a normal eating pattern
  
• Counselor– can help you work out difficulties without judging, and can help you understand what triggers certain behaviours.
  
• Friends – for support
  
• EDA Youthline - 0845 634 7650 – confidential support and information for anyone in the UK. Open from 4.00 pm to 6.30 pm Monday to Friday and 1.00pm -4.30pm on Saturdays. We are able to call young people back to save your phone bill, but do consider who will answer the phone. You can also e-mail them on: talkback@edauk.com, Or write to the youth workers at:
  Eating Disorders Association, 103 Prince of Wales Road, Norwich, NR1 1DW.
  FAQ’s
  
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What can I do to help my friend?

Give time - and listen. Listen to what your friend is saying. Try not to give advice, but encourage her or him to seek help.

Should I tell their parents? Firstly you could try to persuade them to tell their parents (you could go with them) so that they can take control of their eating disorder. If they can't and you feel worried about your friend's health and safety, then you can think about telling them. But first, you must talk to your friend, tell them you want to talk to their parents and why, and reassure them that you are still their friend.

What should we say to her/him? Eating disorders are about feelings not about food so it is important to concentrate on how they feel emotionally not about what they have or haven't eaten. Also talk to them about all the normal things you like to chat about.

How can I help her/him feel better? As low self esteem is the most common characteristic of people with eating disorders it is important to remind them why you like them and what makes them so special to you e.g. their sense of humour, loyalty, kindness. Don't use false compliments because they will see through them.

Will it help if I cover up for my friend? The problem may go on longer if you cover it up, remember you are not responsible for your friends behaviour. The best way to help is to let your friend take responsibility for their own behaviour. It would be helpful though to suggest that your friend gets professional help.

Should I change my eating habits to fit in with my friend? No! Don't change your own eating habits. Don't let your friend make you feel guilty about eating a healthy, balanced diet and let them see you eating normal meals without it being a big issue.

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