Expert: Meg - 8/7/2011

Question
QUESTION: Hi, my name is brianna and I'm 14 years old. I've been purging for about 2 years now, this is such a stupid question, but I was wondering, How much would I have to purge in order to be able to go to a residential treatment center, or whatever theyre called, because I'd like to get help, but I don't think I'll be able to get better here at home, I think I'll continue doing it and lying about it
 

ANSWER: Hi Brianna,

First off, my apologies for being slow this week.  I didn't see this question until now and I know you've had to wait a few days so I'm sorry about that.

I'm so sorry that you're dealing with this and hope that I can help at least a little bit.  It makes me sad to see that you're suffering and wanting to know how sick you need to be to go inpatient.  The sad truth about eating disorders is that they can be deadly at any phase and if you feel like you are sick enough to need this type of help, it is my feeling that you probably do.  It is really good that you have the insight to know that you are not getting better at home and that you need some additional help and I would highly suggest talking with your parents or a counselor if you are seeing one about this as I'm sure they will be glad to help you take the next step towards finding a residential treatment that works for you.

At 14, you have so much life ahead of you and the sooner you can get this monkey off of your back, the better.  Its wonderful that you want help and I truly hope that you are able to find a program that works.  

I'm attaching a few links and articles for you, as well as a treatment finder that might be a good first step.

http://www.ehow.com/how_4906717_need-inpatient-eating-disorder-treatment.html

http://www.something-fishy.org/treatmentfinder/Category/Inpatient-Residential/

http://www.edreferral.com/

Best of luck to you and PLEASE let me know if there is anything else I can do.

Meg


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks so much for the help! umm, ive decided not to get help... but since im unwilling to get help now, (noone knows) can the school, or my parents force me to stay somewhere and talk to someone, even if i say no?

Answer
Hi Briana,

I'm sorry that you are still struggling and I truly hope that you feel like taking steps back towards health soon.  I also understand that often, people have to reach a really scary and low place to even really realize the gravity of their problem and want to get better.  

As far as can your parents MAKE you get help, it is somewhat possible as you are under 18.  If they feel that you are in danger, they might be able to make you get help.  However, it is and will always be up to you as to if you really take steps towards recovering.

Did something specific happen to make you not want to seek out help anymore?

Take care, okay?

Meg