What do you do if your friends is anorexic?

Question

My friend has a history with anorexia (two years ago.) I assumed she stopped, but I think she's started again the last few months. There are lots of signs I see that are signs of anorexia:

- She says she hasn't had her period in three months

- In the locker room, whenever complimented on how skinny she is, she immediately comes back with how fat she is

- I can see her ribs, and she doesn't have any curves

- Whenever I see her eat, she eats very slowly and usually doesn't finish her lunch or whatever she's eating - she doesn't eat like she's on a diet though

- She definitely has self-confidence problems (she gives in easily to peer pressure to feel accepted, etc.)

I'm really worried about her. She plays sports, so she NEEDS that food, and she looks great as she is. What should I do? Am I just BSing? If she is, should I tell her mom in private about her (I like her mom, I feel like I could talk to her) or talk to her? Any ideas?

Answer 1

Anerexics usally  won't just stop cause you say so. Her mom need to get her in a rehab program. She needs a therapist and group meetings with other like her so she knows she is not alone. Talk to her mom and express your worry.

Answer 2

I would try to talk to her about it first, but if you think she's in danger (and anorexia is dangerous!) then it's definitely ok to talk to her mom.  It might be best to tell your mom that you're worried she Might be anorexic, so that her mom can ask her about it instead of just accusing her.  It's really important to not get mad at people for being anorexic, it's a real problem and they might think they're in control of it but they're really not.  They need help and support and her mom would be a good person to give that to her.

Answer 3

If you can talk to her mother and the two of you can keep it confidential, do it.  Your friend may be extremely angry with you if she knows you were discussing her behind her back.  She could very well die from this condition, and talking to someone that can help her may save her life.  I wish you the best of luck with this.