Ask Sam letter

Hi there,

People’s relationship with food can change for different reasons, but we all need a balanced diet for our body to work properly. If you’re worried about your eating, support is there for you.

There are lots of different kinds of eating disorders, and anorexia is a mental health issue that makes someone limit how much they’re eating or drinking to lose weight. When you think you’re being affected by an eating disorder, it’s important to speak to your doctor. They can talk to you about what’s happening and give you support for the future.

You can make a doctor’s appointment any time with your GP, sometimes you’ll need to phone in the morning to make an appointment that day. If you’re able to, if can help to get support from your parents or carers to make the appointment. Only a doctor can diagnose you, but whether someone has an eating disorder or not, you can still get support.

If it feels safe to, keeping a journal can help. You could write about things in your life and how you’re feeling. This can be a good way to see if there are any specific patterns or triggers which may affect your relationship with food. If you’re feeling like you need to skip food or change your behaviour because of the journal, it’s important to stop though.

Many young people have shared their own experiences of difficulties with food and eating disorders. You may find it helpful to go on the message boards to see how other young people have coped and what has helped them during this time. Remember you can always speak to a Childline counsellor too.

Take care,

Sam