A Friend in Need

Many teens have friends that have an eating disorder but don't know what to do. The thought of hurting their friend's feelings is too much to bear sometimes so teens often don't say anything to them at all. Also, teens do not know their friend has an eating disorder. Some signs that someone may have an eating disorder are needing to exercise constantly, avoiding eating with friends and others, talking about their weight and food, always going to the bathroom especially after meals, or becoming defensive or sensitive when talking about his or her weight loss or eating habits. In order to help a friend in need one must be supportive and listen to what their friend has to say instead of ignoring the issue or degrading them. Also, one must focus on the inner qualites that makes the friend unique or special such as a nice personality or beautiful eyes. Lastly, do not try to fix the problem, the friend may need to see a support group or therapist to cure their eating disorder but they need assurance that nothing is wrong or embarrassing about having help. Please do not ignore a problem a friend may have because you may just save their life!