Eating anxiety
Question
I'm really worried about my sister, she's really thin but has been trying to lose her 'fat' by taking diet pills and generally starving herself.
I've tried to talk to my Mum about it but she doesn't believe me. Is there anything I can do to help her? I just need to know how to stop her.
Answer
You're obviously very concerned for your sister's health and wellbeing and it must be hard for you to see her do this to herself, especially if you feel your Mum doesn't believe you. But please be reassured: by asking for help you've made a positive step.
You don't mention if you've talked to your sister about her wanting to lose weight or if you've just been watching her do it. Either way, it's clearly having a big effect on you. When someone has issues with how they look, this can affect their self-esteem. Letting your sister know you care about her and that you're there for her whenever she wants to talk may mean a lot to her, and could help her to think more about her behaviour.
People often take diet pills and starve themselves when they don't have enough information about maintaining a healthy weight. The healthiest way to lose weight is to eat a nutritious balanced diet and take regular exercise. This doesn't have to be anything too strenuous or expensive; walking briskly for 20 minutes a day or swimming twice a week could help a lot. You could help motivate her by exercising together. In addition, she might not actually realise that taking pills can damage her health and make things harder in the long-term.
Although you felt your Mum didn't believe you before, you might want to try to talk to her again to see if she could help you in getting your sister to stop. Alternatively, maybe you, or your sister, would like to talk to someone about weight and self-image issues. Connexions Direct is an online and telephone information and advice service for young people. They can provide support for both of you around issues of health and wellbeing. The advice line, on 080 800 13219 is open 8am-2am every day.
It is possible that your sister might be developing symptoms of an eating disorder. Or, if this behaviour continues, it's worth being aware that this could happen. If you're concerned that her behaviour with food could lead onto an eating disorder then you could contact the Eating Disorders Association helpline on 0845 634 7650.
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