We strongly recommend that young people open up to anyone they feel comfortable with – whether that is a friend, sibling, parent, carer, teacher or other trusted adult. Talking to someone is better than talking to no one! If they require further support, there are many professionals and people who can help – they can try talking to a GP, school counselor or other health professional they like and trust.

Body image concerns and eating disorders are serious psychological illnesses – people are not having these thoughts and feelings by choice, or to get attention, and they can’t just snap out of it. One of the best things that can happen, particularly early on, is for young people to share their thoughts and concerns, and to open up about their behaviours. It is worth you asking questions, and talking to them. The Mental Health First Aid Guidelines for disordered eating and eating disorders provides detailed guidance on the signs to look out for, and  how to approach someone and have a conversation about their body image concerns or eating disorder.

If you are in Australia, you can also call the Butterfly National Helpline on 1800 334 673, email them or chat online to seek support for yourself or someone you know. You can search for ANZAED credentialed eating disorder providers here.