Opening up to your doctor about your eating disorder is an important and brave step towards getting the support you need. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your appointment and make the most of the conversation:
Be Honest: It's crucial to be open and honest with your doctor about what you're experiencing. Share your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to food, eating, and body image. Providing accurate and detailed information will help your doctor understand the severity of your condition.
Write Down Your Concerns: Before your appointment, jot down the key points you want to discuss with your doctor. This can help you stay focused and ensure you cover everything you want to address during the appointment.
Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of anorexia and how it's affecting you. Knowing the signs and symptoms can help you explain your experiences more clearly to your doctor.
Express Your Feelings: Let your doctor know about any fears or concerns you have about discussing your eating disorder. This can help create an open and supportive environment for the conversation.
BMI Is Not Everything: If you're worried that your doctor might not take your eating disorder seriously because of your BMI, it can be helpful to express your concerns about this upfront. Remember that eating disorders can affect individuals of all body sizes, and BMI alone does not fully capture the severity of the disorder.
Ask for Referrals: Your GP may not be an eating disorder specialist, but they should be able to refer you to an appropriate specialist or treatment center. If they don't seem knowledgeable about eating disorders, don't hesitate to ask for a referral to a mental health professional who specializes in eating disorders.
Take a Support Person: If you feel comfortable, consider bringing a trusted friend, family member, or advocate to the appointment with you. Having someone else there for support can help ease anxiety and provide additional information to the doctor if needed.
Stay Calm and Patient: Remember that your doctor may not be familiar with eating disorders or might need to gather more information before giving a comprehensive response. Be patient and give them the opportunity to learn and understand your situation better.
Seek a Second Opinion if Necessary: If you don't feel heard or understood by your GP, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion from another medical professional.
Remember Your Goal: The primary goal of opening up to your doctor is to seek support and appropriate care for your eating disorder. Regardless of any initial reactions, advocating for your health and well-being is essential.
Remember that your doctor's role is to support your health and well-being, and they should take your concerns seriously. If you encounter any difficulties in getting the help you need, consider reaching out to eating disorder support organizations or specialists who can provide guidance and resources. You don't have to face this journey alone, and seeking help is an important step towards recovery.