How can we know we are at the beginning of anorexia or bulimia nervosa?

     We all know that adolescence is a period of change that affects the personality and the behaviour of a person. Adults might think these changes are odd or, at least, dangerous. Some disorders concerning food does not strike as odd, as they may appear as ways of asserting themselves or to test their independence.

     However the existence of food disorders must keep us alert about the possibility of falling ill.

We must ask ourselves what might be happening to our children if we find any or several of the following behavioural patterns:

• The circle of friends gets narrower and narrower. Isolating attitudes, loneliness, sadness and melancholy go hand in hand along with an obsessive increase in the time dedicated to study or other ‘useful’ activities.
• We can see that their habits concerning food change, rigidly and persistently. For example, they try to avoid eating with the family, eating less and less, and the show an obsession for counting calories.
• They overdo physical exercise with the sole goal of losing weight.
• They complain about the way they look, their weight or any part of their bodies, (especially hips and thighs).
• They are odd and their character changes notably.

     What can we do if we suspect we are facing a food related behaviour disorder?

     If you think that there is a person among your friends, family or acquaintances who suffers a disorder of this kind, act decisively by talking to him/her and people he/she trusts.

     If you suspect it is you who may be undergoing these problems, do not close yourself to others and go out and find help. Trust health professionals on this matter. They will know what to do. You can find help at your Health Centre. They will give you the specific treatment you need. The joint work of different specialists is essential as these illnesses have both physical and psychological components.

     Citizens groups , specifically Groups of Mutual Help. can be of great assistance, for families as well as patients. At their meetings, you can share your problem and learn to manage, in an environment of support and understanding.