Eating disorders

1. How can I get treatment?
Quitting an eating disorder is not easy. It may seem like when the person is ready to quit, they can just stop and break the habit. But, it’s not that simple. Psychotherapy helps people who are trying to stop an eating disorder by teaching the individual how to understand their emotions that cause the disorder, and how to get rid of those feelings.

It is recommended that along with psychotherapy, the individual get on a treatment plan that includes nutritional management and nutritional counseling so that they can learn appropriate eating habits. In some cases, antidepressants are prescribed for individuals who also suffer from depression.

In order to get treatment you have to speak with your doctor or an organization that helps people with eating disorders. They will discuss with you what treatment options are best for your specific situation.

2. How can you tell if someone has an eating disorder?
There are some common symptoms that you should be aware of.
- The person goes to the bathroom after eating (to throw up)
- Doesn’t eat a lot, makes excuses like, “I already ate.” Or “I’m not hungry”
- Teeth start to turn yellow, breath may smell bad
- Skin looks sallow and dull
- Heavy bags under eyes
- Rapid weight loss, getting too thin
- Obsessive excercising
- Makes excuses for not attending events were there is food
- Talks constantly about his/her weight
- Idolizes extremely thin celebrities (may also have pictures of them all over their walls)
- Pushes their food around on their plate, takes tiny bites.

3. Where can I go to get help?
. If you need someone to talk to about your eating disorder. These resources should help.
- Eating disorders anonymous (support groups) (206) 903-9724
- Eating disorders Awareness and Prevention Program
(education, advocacy, and prevention) (206) 382-3587
- Eating Disorders Northwest
( support groups for age 16+) (206) 587 2377
- Group Health Adolescents Center
(outpatient services) (425) 562-0640
- Overeaters Anonymous
( literature, support groups) (206) 718-6345
- Swedish Medical Center: eating disorders program
(206) 781-6345

 

 

 

4. How do I approach someone with an eating disorder?
When talking to them, avoid speaking to them as if you are trying to tell them what to do, or yell at them. Don’t act as if you know what is best for them (even if you do). Making “I” statements rather then “you” statements will also help them to listen more. Remember, when you approach them they will probably be offended, they might feel embarrassed and get mad at you for making them feel that way.