Spotting the signs of an eating disorder may seem tough, but by noticing just a few key warning signs you may be able to help someone get the help they need. Eating disorders are a complicated topic. They range from not eating, eating and purging, to binge eating. Because of these differences, it is important to also look beyond the plate to see if someone is struggling. Some ways to tell if a friend may be struggling is to watch how they act around food, weight, or social situations.
You don’t have to look a certain way to have an eating disorder, so some of the physical signs may not be present. Paying attention to how your friend or loved one may have changed socially, if they are dealing with stress or anxiety, or the way they comment on their own physical appearance are all ways to spot those early signs of an eating disorder. If you notice these signs, it may be a good idea to talk to your friend or loved one. Let them know you care about them and are here to support them. It may be the one thing they needed to help save them from an eating disorder.