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Home // Rough Stuff - a rough guide
What are eating problems & disordersMost people are unhappy with their bodies some of the time – thinking they’re too fat, too thin, or just the wrong shape. This can be especially true for teenagers whose bodies are changing a lot, often very quickly.Many people try out diets and usually this is not a problem, but sometimes eating patterns can become unhealthy – for example, if you eat too much or too little because you are feeling unhappy or stressed. It might feel easier to control the way you eat than to cope with painful feelings. Over time, this can become dangerous to your emotional and physical health. In most cases help and support from family, friends, teacher , doctor etc means these concerns can be dealt with and pass with time. For some young people though these habits become more serious and extreme and can build up so that their physical health, and in some cases even their lives, are at risk. The most severe eating disorders are called anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa (usually shortened to anorexia and bulimia). It can be really hard to cope with an eating problem or disorder on your own. Many young people deny they have an eating problem or try to keep it a secret. But the sooner someone accepts that they do have a problem, the easier it is for them to get help.You can get help from talking to friends and family and by letting your doctor know that you are concerned. You might prefer to tell the school nurse or your teacher if you find it hard to discuss with your family. You can then be put in touch with the help you need. You can also talk about your worries by calling Childline 0800 11 11 or the Eating Disorders Association listed below. Are you worried about a friend? Talk to your friend. Give them time – listen. This same advice applies if you’re worried about a friend who you think may be depressed or self-harming.If you’re worried or finding it difficult to cope with worries about a friend on your own, talk to an adult you trust, or contact one of the places listed on this site for support – you need to look after yourself as well! B-EAT formerly Eating Disorders Association (EDA)
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