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| What is an Eating Disorder? | Getting Help | Recovery | Worried about a friend? | Other issues | Message Boards | Forum |
How can I stop worrying about my friend?
The truth is, you will worry, but the important thing to remember is that if you have noticed something is wrong, the chances are others will have too. It is not all your responsibility. Don’t let your friend’s illness take over your life. Try to enjoy your usual activities, with or without your friend. They may have changed, may not be the way they used to be, but this could be the eating disorder at work. You can talk in confidence to beat Youthline if you want some support . It is important to look after your own needs and not allow your own health and wellbeing to be affected.
I am worried about my friend - should I tell their parents?
If you feel concerned about your friend’s safety, then tell an adult you trust, perhaps your parents/carers. The adult you tell may decide they need to tell your friend’s parents. If they do, let your friend know that they intend to do this and perhaps give them the chance to tell their parents themselves first. You may have to face the fact that they may not like what you have done. As eating disorders involve secrecy and denial they may be quite angry with you, even if you did it for the best. In time they will probably be glad of your care and friendship.
I am not sure I can handle this…
You may be feeling lots of mixed emotions yourself. You may decide it’s too hard to stay around somebody recovering and that you would rather avoid them, that is your decision and you should not feel guilty about this. You may feel angry and frustrated - Nobody wants to see somebody they care about unhappy and poorly. Be honest about how you feel. Perhaps you could talk to somebody and get some support yourself. It isn’t easy, we know, but you are valued and very important, even though sometimes it doesn’t feel like it.
