How to Help a Friend with Bulimia

It's not unusual to be at the mercy of cravings, binge eating or dieting, but bulimia is far darker and helping friends through it can be tricky. Bulimia itself is a raging battle between the want to lose weight and also the want to eat large quantities of food. Typically those suffering use a variety of techniques to combat the weight gain. Contrary to common belief the methods used are not just inducing sickness. When panic after a binge sets in, bulimics can end up exercising to the point of exhaustion or starving themselves.

How to recognise if a friend has bulimia

• It’s best not to jump to conclusions too quickly, as not everyone’s experience of this eating disorder is the same. Typically, they’ll be experiencing many of the factors listed below so it’s important not to dive in without getting the facts straight.
• They’re likely to be obsessed about their weight and the way their body looks, as part of bulimia is the want to appear thin. Another sign is that your friend eats alone or is secretive over their food. They may exercise a lot even when exhausted and their teeth may be discoloured from stomach acid that is in the mouth because of sickness. Pay attention to whether they leave for the bathroom after meals.
• They may be suffering from a mental disorder such as anxiety or depression. It’s vital to remember that people suffering from bulimia are usually normal weight. If rapid weight loss occurs it’s likely to be another eating disorder.

How to help a friend who has bulimia

• The best thing to do if you suspect your friend has bulimia is to simply be there for them. They need to know that you’ll support them. Talking is one of the best things you can do, especially as you may learn what the route of their problem is. You could even give them leaflets about help that’s available to them, but remember it’s their decision whether to seek help or not so don’t push the subject. Forcing your friend to talk may result in them backing away especially as they may be very fragile. Although it’s hard, try to wait until they come to you after you’ve made it clear you care about them.
• It’s also best not to blame the person because bulimia is likely to be as a result of low self esteem, blame just escalates the problem. All in all just remember to be there for them because they have to help themselves before others can.