How to deal with an eating disorder as a teenager

Being a teenager can be hard sometimes. In those years we are met with a lot of difficulties and choices. It is also a time were we feel a lot of stress, confusion and loneliness. Some people are more sensitive than others, and are in risk of developing problems like an eating disorder. I would like to give you some ideas about how to cope with this awful disease. I talk out of experience.

Recognize the problem:
If you or anyone else begin to notice strange eating habits or behavior. Like skipping meals, pick at food, obsessing about calories, or complaining about weight. . You need to look at yourself and realize what you are doing. Sometimes you don't realize the problem before it is too late. Trust me! starving yourself is like an addiction. In the beginning you will deny the problem. When people confront you about your strange eating habits you might tell them that "there is nothing to worry about". I always told people that "I've got it under control" and I believed the words myself. But I didn't have any control. So you really have to look at yourself and get a perspective before it's too late.

How to get help:
The first step is telling someone. You shouldn't be alone with your problems, especially a potentially dangerous problem. You can talk with your parents, a teacher or an adult close to you. Like I said it is a serious and dangerous problem. Like any illness it has to be treated. You need to contact the doctor. I know this is extremely frightening because then you probably have to gain weight which is really scary.

Recovery:
Hopefully you and the doctor make a plan for you to recover. He isn't gonna watch you 24-7 but your family might. One thing I know is that it can be so hard for a family to go through this. They might be mad, sad or irritated. But that is because they love you. People may don't understand you or the things you are going through. Try not to listen to those people, you need to get better and be surrounded by people who care. This is not your fault and there is nothing to be ashamed about. Remember you have to want to recover or else you might relapse. An eating disorder is suicide and the road ahead is dead. This may sound terrible, and it is!.

Please get better. Good luck :)