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Am I on the path to having an eating disorder? | Ask Sam

Dear sam i have been missing out on eating lunch and either dont eat or eat very very little at dinner. i normally eat ok in the mornings i have also been trying to lose weight but it feels like i never will and some friends and family have told me to see the doctor and i am worried i might be on the path to having an eating disorder

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Sam

Hi there, 

Lots of young people struggle with their eating, but skipping meals and avoiding eating can be unhealthy or dangerous. If you or other people are worried about what you’re doing, it’s always okay to ask for help.

When your body doesn’t get the food it needs during the day it can have lots of different effects. It can affect your energy, mood, sleep, focus, and even your long-term health. These effects can build over time, so it’s good to think about ways to eat more healthily.

We’ve got lots of information on eating problems and staying healthy to help you think about ways to cope. It’s also important to see a doctor if you, your friends, or others are getting worried. Tools like DocReady can help you think about what’s happening and what you could share when you go.

Remember, you don’t need to wait until something becomes a problem before getting help. Speaking to someone about what’s happening can help you to get tools and advice to manage things in a healthier way.

You're not alone and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. You can always get support from a Childline counsellor.

Take care,

Sam

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