How to Seek Help

If you suspect you may have an eating disorder, the first step is admitting to yourself that something is wrong. While internal acceptance and acknowledgement is an integral part of the process, attempting to tackle an eating disorder alone is extremely difficult as the underlying psychological issues are often quite complicated. It is therefore important to talk to somebody when you recognise something isn’t quite right.

Depending on your situation and support network, you may decide to confide in somebody close to you before seeking professional help. Telling someone for the first time can be an incredibly daunting experience, but can also bring with it a great sense of relief as you are no longer carrying your concerns alone.

When considering who you will talk to about a potential eating disorder, it is important to confide in somebody you think will support you in finding the best path to getting better. Ensure you talk to somebody trustworthy, sensitive and understanding with whom you feel most comfortable.

There are many avenues available to you in reaching out for help:

From a Family Member or Close Friend

You may decide that telling somebody close to you is the best avenue for you in taking the first step to addressing your situation. Telling somebody for the first time can be very difficult as you may be unsure about the problems you are facing, or the help you might need, so saying it out loud can make it feel all the more real. Although this initial step may seem daunting, sharing your problems with somebody close to you can bring with it a great sense of relief as you no longer feel alone in the situation.

For further information and tips on telling somebody about your eating disorder, please download a copy of the EDV Eating Disorders and Telling Someone fact sheet.

From Your Community

There may be somebody in your community you feel comfortable talking to about your concerns, such as a teacher, youth group leader, sports coach or family friend who represents a supportive figure in your life. Some people will feel more comfortable talking to a person outside of their immediate circle of family and friends because the level of emotional attachment is less significant. Everybody’s situation is unique and personal, so it is important you choose the avenue most suitable for you.

From Your GP or Health Professional

There are a range of health care professionals who specialise in the field of eating disorders and represent a very helpful point of contact. Your GP will begin by asking a few questions to determine your health condition, and will then make recommendations for the best avenue for professional assistance. Your GP can refer you to a psychologist or nutritionist in your local area who can take you to the next step towards recovery. EDV’s Helpfinder service provides a referral list of doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists and other health professionals across Victoria who have an interest and/or experience in the field of eating disorders to help put you in touch with the best avenue of support for you. To access the EDV Helpfinder service, please contact the Eating Disorders Helpline on 1300 550 236 or email help@eatingdisorders.org.au

From Eating Disorders Victoria

The Eating Disorders Helpline is a first point of call for anyone in the community who has a worry about an eating disorder or a related issue. Call 1300 550 236. Eating Disorders Victoria has a range of services available in helping you take the next step to addressing a potential eating disorder.

For detailed information on the services provided by EDV, please click here.

Last Updated: July 2009