People with eating disorders (especially adults)?

Loads of the people on here who have eating disorders say they're having counselling. But i'm just 14, i don't have access to one without telling parents etc (which i'm never gonna do so don't even bother). I want to stop making myself ill and obsessing about food and weight but i don't know how to do it on my own. and if i'm honest i'm still desperate to lose weight.
i feel so young and helpless and most the older people with EDs seem so in control i don't know what to do :(

Don't let them fool you. Most people with eating disorders are not in control. Everyone with this serious illness have good days and bad days (I'm in a period of recovering from bulimia). I would ask you to seek help by telling a friend about your problem (it worked for me and I felt a huge burden was lifted as soon as my partner knew about my 'secret'). There are telephone numbers that you can ring so you can talk to someone about the problem anonymously. I know it is hard when you are underage (I never told my parents). I don't believe in counselling as this never helped me but being able to confide in someone who loves me seemed to work. With all eating disorders the only person who can help you is you (but it is so much easier if you have a loved one who can try to understand and listen on your bad days). You are very young and my heart goes out to you. Confide in someone you love that loves you back. I wish I could be more help. You must try to beat this while you are young, believe me, if you don't it will take over your life. Love and Good luck.

You are not alone, so many at your age are feeling the same way. First, don't feel guilty.
Try to make an eatting plan. If you eat too much, eat 5 small meals a day. That way you are not hungry.

Why don't you talk to a guidance counselor at school - they can probably set you up with a therapist. Or maybe try contacting some therapists on your own and tell them your situation and see what they can do for you.

Why won't you talk to your parents? I used to worry about telling my parents a lot of things, but in most cases, it won't be nearly as bad you think it will be if you tell them.

Good luck to you, I hope you find the help you need.

Hey see my post an hr ago 'eating disorder help' Im trying to set up an online support group for people with an eating disorder where you can get together and discuss any worries or issues u have etc. If u would like to join please email me or reply to the post. U r not alone i promise .

Hi, my daughter has suffered with an eating disorder and I had no idea. I did eventually realise and at first she denied it. She did not want me to help her at first but I would not give up on her. I have been through it with her and she is fine now. If you wouldn't want your mum to help you then how about one of your friends' mum or a teacher at school. You have realised you need help which is good so nip it in the bud now before it takes a hold. Just start by telling someone you trust. Good Luck x

Eating Disorders Awareness & Prevention Hotline

1-800-931-2237

Help for Eating Disorders

before your ED gets too out of control go and see your doctor. they can tell your parents if they think it's life threatening, but if not they can refer you without involving your parents. counselling will probably really help and depending on your type of ED they can give you medication to combat some of the symptoms (antidepressants and tablets to help with bulimia and stomach acid are commonplace)

good luck, i really hope this all works out for you
x

Hi,

I realise that you don't want to talk to your parents about this but it doesn't have to mean that you cannot access treatment.

Make an appointment to go and talk to your GP, you can do this without a parent, take along a friend who you trust for support. Patient confidentiality will mean that they can't let your parents know, unless he/she feels that you are in immediate danger. Tell him you realise you have a problem and that you want help to deal with it.

Also, have you tried contacting your local mental health charity and asking if they have a Young Person's Service -

http://www.mind.org.uk/Mind+in+your+area...

they are friendly and easy to access. They will be able to point you in the right direction to get help and support.

Understanding eating distress:
http://www.mind.org.uk/Information/Bookl...

will give you some good information and also give links and contact details for other organisations that can offer you assistance.

You need and deserve to get help, so please try some of the things I've suggested.

Take care and good luck.