If you think you or someone close to you may have an eating disorder and want to seek support, the first step is to contact a GP (General Practitioner).
It’s normal to feel embarrassed or unsure about talking to your GP. You might worry that your problem isn’t a “real” eating disorder if you’re not underweight or if you’re not a young woman. But eating disorders can affect anyone, no matter their age, gender, or body size.
Our service helps people from all walks of life, including:
- All genders (at least 10% of the people we see are men)
- All ethnic backgrounds
- LGBTQ+ community members
- People with a variety of body sizes
We encourage you to speak to your GP as early as possible, because it’s often easier to get better if the problem is addressed early.
What to share with your GP if you think you have an eating disorder & how to prepare for your appointment.
it can be helpful to write down your thoughts before you see your GP. This will help you clearly share what you’re experiencing. Some things you might want to include are:
- Are you always thinking about food and your body?
Does it affect your life every day? - Have you gained or lost a lot of weight?
How much weight have you gained or lost, and over what time period? Has this affected your menstrual cycle or your sex drive? - Do you binge eat large amounts of food?
Does it feel out of control or upsetting? - Do you make yourself sick, use laxatives, take diet pills, or over-exercise to control your weight?
- Have you noticed any physical problems since your eating habits changed?
For example, fainting, chest pains, blood in vomit, or tooth decay? - Do you only eat a very limited number of foods?
Is this making you underweight or lacking important nutrients? - Are there other physical health issues you’re dealing with?
For example, diabetes, IBS, osteoporosis (bone issues), heart problems, or kidney problems? - Do you have any other mental health or addiction problems?
For example, depression, anxiety, or alcohol misuse? - Do you have any neurodivergence, sensory processing, communication difference or learning difficulties?
For example, autism, ADHD, or another diagnosis? - Are you pregnant or having difficulty getting pregnant?
Writing down these things can make it easier to explain your situation to your GP. If you’re not sure how to start, feel free to show them this list.
We are here to support you and will work with you to find the right help.
