Eating Disorders / Question
Published: December 10, 1999
Dear TeenHealthFX,
Should I ever ask a friend if she has anorexia? How can I tell if she is forcing herself to throw up?
Signed: Throwing Up
Dear Throwing Up,
There is no way to physically tell if she is throwing up, but if you feel she is then definitely ask her. Also, take a look at "Does My Friend Have An Eating Disorder?". If your friend has any of these symptoms or if you still have suspicions that she is making herself vomit (throw-up), then talk to her about that also. She may deny it and get upset with you or she may be glad you noticed. Either way, you need to get professional help and an adult involved. A person suffering with Anorexia or any eating disorder needs professional help and counseling.
You are not responsible for your friend's behaviors and actions and someone with an eating disorder is often very depressed and upset. You need to be there as a friend and not as the professional help. Talk to your parents, her parents or a school nurse. They will get a counselor and doctor involved.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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