Fatlos › Eating disorders and getting support
Eating disorders and getting support
Thinking about weight can be difficult for some people. If food, weight or body shape is taking over your life, help is available, and you deserve support.
A gentle note first
This page is for anyone who finds that dieting or thinking about weight feels frightening, out of control or all-consuming, or who is worried about someone else. You do not need to be underweight to have an eating disorder, and you do not need to wait until things get worse.
What are eating disorders?
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions. Types include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder and other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED). They affect people of any age, gender, size or background.
Signs to look out for
- Being preoccupied with food, weight, calories or body shape.
- Skipping meals, avoiding eating with others, or eating in secret.
- Eating very large amounts quickly and feeling out of control or ashamed.
- Making yourself sick, or using laxatives or diet pills.
- Exercising compulsively, even when ill or injured.
- Feeling very distressed if you break your "rules".
- Dizziness, tiredness, feeling cold, or changes in periods.
If you recognise some of these in yourself, it does not mean you are "failing". It means you may need support.
When weight loss advice is not the answer
If you have, or have had, an eating disorder, standard weight-loss advice may not be right for you and could make things worse. Speak to a GP before trying to lose weight. Likewise, if you are under 18, are pregnant or have another condition, get advice first. Our pace guidance is not intended to be pushed beyond what is healthy.
Where to get help
- Your GP: they can talk it through, check your physical health and refer you to specialist NHS services. You can ask to bring someone with you.
- Beat, the UK's eating disorder charity, runs a free helpline for people of all ages: 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales) or 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland), 3pm to 8pm, Monday to Friday. Calls are free from landlines and mobiles. There is also webchat and email. Check the Beat website for current details. Beat is not a crisis service.
- Samaritans: call 116 123 if you are in distress and need to talk to someone.
- NHS 111 for urgent advice, and 999 in an emergency.
If you are worried about someone else
Choose a calm, private moment. Say you are concerned, describe what you have noticed without blame, and listen. Avoid comments about weight or appearance, and encourage them to see a GP. Beat has advice for friends and families.
Recovery is possible
Many people recover fully with treatment and support. The sooner someone gets help, the better the chances. Please reach out, even if you are unsure whether you "count". Back to home or see when to see a GP.
What treatment can involve
Treatment for eating disorders is usually tailored to the person and may involve talking therapy and support with eating and physical health checks. Families and carers are often included. Ask your GP what is available and how to be referred. You can ask your GP about waiting times and self-referral routes in your area, and about what to do while you wait.
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before making big changes, especially if you have a health condition, take medicines, are pregnant or are under 18.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be underweight to have an eating disorder?
No. People of any weight can have an eating disorder.
Is Beat free?
Yes. Beat's helpline (England 0808 801 0677, 3pm to 8pm, Monday to Friday) is free from UK landlines and mobiles.
What should I do first?
Speak to a GP, and contact Beat for confidential support.