Expert: Joanna Lhulier, Psy.D. - 7/20/2008

Question
Hi Joanna,
Thank you for being available to answer questions for those like myself who aren't ready to speak to someone face to face!  I'm just wanting your unbiased opinion as to whether I have an eating disorder or not...if so what type?  I'm 5'10, 130 lbs, 24 yrs old.  I've always been concerned about my weight, what woman isn't.  The last year Ive become incredibly obsessive...it started with my best friend and I living together and making a point to to eat for as long as we could, and when we did, we would save up our calories for junk food.  I noticed how quickly I was losing weight...it was a win win situation for me.  Then my friend moved away and I continued with my old habits, I wouldn't eat breakfast or lunch and have chips for dinner...she left a year ago and this has been an on and off routine for me.  I was 150 lbs, now I'm 130lbs...my ribs are visible...but I'm not skinny because I still weigh 130 lbs.  Two months ago I fainted, blacked out in front of my friends..it happened twice, I went to my doctor and they determined it was low blood sugar.  My doctor asked if I had an eating disorder and I said no, because anorexics eat 200 calories a day and I eat a massive amount some days.  I don't want to go to a doctor and admit this, in fear of gaining weight, I'm so proud that I went from a size 12 to a size 4.  It's becoming a detriment with my boyfriend, he doesn't understand why I can't just eat, and eat healthy foods.  What should I do?  Thanks for your help.  I've never been this honest about my disgusting ways until now.

Answer
HI Danielle-
I am glad that you have emailed and felt comfortable enough to write candidly.  I know that you will find what I am going to say surprising but, I do think you have an eating disorder.  I think you fit the "normal" criteria i.e. low weight, not eating enough, passing out, etc.  You also fit other not as obvious criteria: abnormal eating habits, not being satisfied with the way you look, letting food interfere with other parts of your life including relationships, etc.  I think you should think about how you feel about admitting to yourself that you have an eating disorder.  

One of the more difficult problems that you have is that your ED has developed over time, slowly enough so that you were not aware.  This is unfortunate, because it has given the eating disordered part of you a lot of power.  You will have to work very hard to reclaim yourself.

I really think you need to talk to a professional who has experience with eating disorders.  You may need to see a nutritionist as well.  Please, consider this Danielle.  I think the sooner, the better.  I wish you the best.
Take Care,
Dr. Joanna Lhulier