Expert: Joanne - 7/15/2006

Question
Hello I just wanted to know if there is a syndrom or disorder when someone has both bulimia and anorexia together. My firend has both of them she eats very very little abd throws up that little bit she eats. Its really scary and shes getting too thin very fast. Its hard to look up each disorder and get accurate information on each of them it would be much easier if that had a criteria for someone with both disorders.

Answer
I think that you just need to show your friend that you are there for them no matter what, and are willing to help them through this.

Don't let your friend walk all over you though!  Sometimes you may be scared that you are risking the friendship when you are giving the push, but stay strong!  Avoid conversations and arguements about food and eating, but encourage them to seek help for this problem.

It can be hard watching loved ones going through this.  I recommend going to www.somethingfishy.org and reading the information that they have for friends and family there.  There is also a discussion board for friends and family there, people that have been through this with their friends may be able to give you more advice than me on that side of the illness, as I am from the other side of the fence!

Hugs
Holly