Expert: Ryan Hale - 8/4/2009

Question
Hi, I kinda think that I might have an eating disorder. One of my friends found out that I have been making myself throw up and sometimes I won't eat for days and then "binge", I guess. I have been self conscious of my weight since I was 9. My older sisters were always so skinny and unfortunatley that didn't come as easily for me. I have always worked out and been involved in every sport possible, but nothing ever seemed to work until I started dieting and throwing up. I felt that I was finally happy with my weight, but now people are saying I have an obsession with my body and the way I look? What should I do?

Answer
Sawyer- first, I apologize for the delayed response to your question, I have been overwhelmed with work this week. Second, from what you describe, it sounds like an eating disorder to me.  I would recommend that you see someone who has experience working with those with eating disorders for counseling.  Sometimes seeing a counselor doesn't seem to work, but give it a chance and see someone else if you need to.  The counselor will also be able to help you with other aspects of your life that sort of "promote" your eating disorder.  Often, there are issues within the family, with parents, boyfriends and girlfriends, etc.  The counselor can help sort all of that out with you.  The things that happen in your life that might make it seem a little out of control or hard to deal with can also be sorted through with a counselor.  If you don't know where to find counseling services in your area, your family physician or a school counselor is a great place to start.  They can help point you in the right direction and it's completely confidential. Also, you can do a search for mental health services in your county or area. Many offered by the local government are free or with a reduced cost.  But, good counseling is what will help right now.

It sounds like you may be participating in sports as a way of "looking" a certain way.  It is important that you are not exercising in excess to negate any calories you take in.  Make sure you are exercising for fun and health.  I tell all of the athletes I work with that the focus should be on feeling good, being healthy and having fun.  If working out feels too much like work or an obligation or a way to erase calories you've consumed, then find something else to do that you do just for fun.  Any activity counts.  Remember, when you play sports, your food is your fuel not an enemy.

Please take a hard look at why you are exercising and if it has become part of the problem.  Tell your counselor about that as well.  Your situation can get better and your whole life can get better too.  See about talking with a counselor, I think that's a great place to start.