Getting Professional Help

Few people are able to overcome an eating disorder without outside assistance. Encouraging someone to seek professional help, and providing support for them during the process, can be the most important thing that a family member, friend or partner can do.

It is important, however, to recognise that, ultimately, the responsibility for accepting help and getting better lies with the individual. Forcing someone to get help may sometimes be necessary for the sake of their physical health, but it is rarely effective in assisting long-term recovery. In Victoria, children under the age of 16 are still considered to be under parental guidance and can therefore be ‘forced’ by their parents to go to an appointment with a medical practitioner for a medical examination, or to therapy. However, a child (or anyone else) is unlikely to engage effectively in therapy unless they have accepted they need help.

Eating Disorders Victoria recommends that your first point of professional contact should be a General Practitioner (GP) who can provide an initial assessment of your physical state and diagnose the nature and severity of the eating disorder. A nutritionist, psychologist or psychiatrist can also provide a diagnosis, however it is recommended you visit a GP as they can provide you with options and referrals for further treatment in light of your personal circumstances and current physical state.

If you are reluctant to visit a GP or health professional for any reason, EDV recommends the Eating Disorders Helpline as 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 for free, confidential support and information

Last Updated: March 2009