One of my best friends is bulimic and I’ve been trying to help her to the best of my ability. I gave her a list of foods that I googled that wouldn’t make her gain weight but would be good for her in hopes she wouldn't feel the urge to throw it up. I think she's getting better but I’m not sure. I'm afraid to bring it up too much because she might retreat into a shell and stop talking to me all together. Her parents know as well as her Dr. But it seems I’m the only one she half way listens to. Does anyone have any advice? :confused:

How to help a friend with an eating disorder...that can be difficult. When confronting her, use "I" statements like, "I am concerned that you are not getting enough to eat." Using "I" statements help because it comes across as less accusational. Tell her what you have observed that worries you: "I have seen you binge and purge twice this week, and it scares me because I care about you." Make sure she knows that you are only trying to help and be available for support. Maintain a calm tone--yelling and arguing will only make her want to push you away. I hope this helps. GOOD LUCK! She is very lucky to have a friend like you!

thanks i'll try that tonight

An eating disorder is NOT about food or weight. However, I believe that it starts out that way. An eating disorder goes much much deeper! I'm afraid that your friend is hurt and is suffering deep down, and she is using bingeing/purging to cope, or to numb what is really going on. Or maybe she has lost something in her life and she is using her eating disorder to "fill the void". It could be many things.

I know that you were trying to be helpful with printing out foods for her...but in reality I think that would just make it worse. Putting the focus on food will just make your friend think about it more! I think that you could find something to do to get the focus off food and weight. For example, go to a fun movie, go shopping for jewelry, go get your nails done. Getting invloved with something else could be very helpful!

I think the most important thing your friend needs to know to start to get better is to beleive in herself. She needs to know that she is beautiful inside and out. And from my experience, professional help would make a tremendous difference!! I know I say this in every post, but I cannot stress it enough! Having professional help is helping me so much with my personal recovery. I hope that your friend can want it for herself. I hope that everything goes well! :) My thoughts and prayers are with you!