Pat's Answer
Could I be developing an eating disorder
Your Question
I am worried that I could potentially be developing an eating disorder but I don’t know and I don’t want to say it cause I feel stupidÂ
Answer
Hello, thank you for contacting us.Â
What I am hearing from you is that you are worried that you could be developing an eating disorder and that you do not know for sure.Â
You seem to be aware that there is something going on for you and you think you have an issue with food.  Being aware of those feelings is a good thing, because from that you are trying to find out if you are developing a disorder. Recognising if you have a disorder means that you can start the process of getting help.Â
You are very brave to share this with us, we know that it is not always easy. How would you feel about sharing your thoughts and feelings with a trusted adult in your life? Do you have a good relationship with your parents or even one of your parents, where you feel you could disclose this to them? If not a parent, how about a trusted adult that you get on with. This could be an aunt, uncle, youth leader, or a teacher.Â
Talking works and you have the right to talk to someone about what is going on for you. Sometimes we may need the help of a professional, like a doctor or a counsellor. A starting point might be to have a look at the Bodywhys website: www.bodywhys.ie . People in this organisation offer support to young people and adults who have eating disorders.
The Childline team are here to listen to you too. Your call is very important to us and for that reason we do not trace numbers or IP addresses. We are available to you twenty-four hours a day, every day. We will not judge you. We can help you explore the options that are available to you.
There are several ways that you can chat to us. We are accessible via telephone at 1800 66 66 66, text at 50101 or web chat through www.childline.ie. There are lots of articles covering different topics on our website that you may find helpful also.  www.childldine.ie/howifeel.ie  is just one.
We hope that you find some comfort in the above and we would like to talk to you further about why you may think you have an eating disorder. You do not have to go through this on your own. Childline is here for you when you feel ready to get in touch with us.
Take care of yourself,
Pat