Approaching someone you think may have an eating disorder

Last update: March 1, 2008 - 5:26 PM

TIPS FOR APPROACHING SOMEONE YOU THINK MAY HAVE AN EATING DISORDER

• Ask to speak to the person in private.

• Explain your specific concerns to the person in a nonjudgmental way (e.g. "I'm concerned because you seem to be isolated and not wanting to be involved in any activities, especially when there is food involved"; "I see a large amount of food disappearing in the house and I'm concerned that you may be struggling with an eating problem"; "Your mood seems to be changing these days and I'm concerned about you," etc.).

• Offer to accompany the person to an evaluation with a qualified mental health specialist.

• CONTINUE TO CHECK IN WITH THE PERSON AND OFFER SUPPORT.

Warning signs of bingEing or compulsive overeating

• Overeating or eating uncontrollably, even when not physically hungry

• Eating very rapidly

• Eating alone due to shame or embarrassment

• Feelings of guilt and shame due to overeating

• Depression or mood swings

• Isolation, often from activities involving food, due to embarrassment about weight or eating

• Eating very little in public, but maintaining a high weight

• Preoccupation with weight, dieting and food

• Chronic dieting

• Typically, awareness that eating patterns are abnormal

Source: The Emily Program. For more information, call 651-645-5323, e-mail info@emilyprogram.com, or go to www.emilyprogram.com.

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