6 Signs Your Friend May Be Struggling With An Eating Disorder & How To Support Them
CW // eating disorders. Please note, this blog contains information you may find triggering.
Over the last 30 to 40 years, the prevalence of eating disorders has increased to become a widespread problem across the globe.
To further complicate the issue, eating disorder symptoms often align with ‘cultural norms’, making it difficult to distinguish when someone you know is struggling with disordered eating. For example, we live in a culture that supports extreme dieting, overexercising and compensating for the food we eat. However, these same behaviours could be signs of an eating disorder.
According to UK charity Beat, approximately 1.25 million people have an eating disorder in the UK, while almost 30 million Americans are said to suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
Early intervention is critical to recovery, which is why in aid of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, we’re discussing some of the signs you should look out for if you’re worried a friend or loved one may be struggling with an eating disorder.
WHAT IS AN EATING DISORDER?
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions affecting people of all ages, genders, ethnicities and backgrounds. People with eating disorders use disordered eating behaviour as a way to cope with difficult situations or feelings. This can include eating too much or too little, getting rid of food eaten through unhealthy means or a combination of these behaviours.
It’s important to remember that eating disorders are not all about food itself, but about feelings. For example, how the person treats food may make them feel more in control.
TYPES OF EATING DISORDERS
There are a number of eating disorders, but the most common include:
SIGNS OF AN EATING DISORDER IN SOMEONE ELSE
1. ISOLATION
Eating disorders thrive in isolation.
As a result, you may notice someone avoiding social interaction, spending an increasing amount of time alone or not communicating as much as they used to. These are all warning signs that something’s not quite right.
It’s common for those with eating disorders to experience shame and secrecy, so creating a distance from other people serves to protect the disordered behaviour from being challenged.
2. PREOCCUPATION WITH FOOD
Take note if your friend becomes unusually preoccupied with their eating habits.
You may notice they overly plan meals well in advance, only eat at certain times or only eat food they’ve prepared themselves. Or you might notice this person cutting up food into tiny pieces or ripping it into parts. These are part of the compulsive nature of many eating disorders.
People with disordered eating can also become increasingly concerned about the nutritional content of foods. Elsewhere, you may notice food going missing or find evidence of large quantities of food being eaten.
3. DISORDERED PERCEPTION OF BODY IMAGE
Poor body image may cause them to make negative comments about their body weight or shape. In fact, the person they see in the mirror can appear completely different to who you see in front of you.
They may be inclined to constantly check their reflection in the mirror and touch certain parts of their body - including pulling and pinching their skin to check for excess fat. This is called ‘body checking’.
4. EXCESSIVE EXERCISING
It’s tough in this day and age to separate ‘healthy habit’ from ‘obsession’ - and while exercising daily is great for both your mental and physical wellbeing, there is a line to be drawn.
Someone suffering with an eating disorder may display ‘obsessive habits’ with fitness-related health. Perhaps this person never goes anywhere without their fitness tracker, refuses to skip a workout or pushes their limits until they break.
Being hyperactive is often linked with eating disorders, meaning you may notice that the person struggles to sit still. They may also be afraid that if they sit still, they’ll gain weight.
5. UNUSUAL PHYSICAL CHANGES
A clear sign of concerning behaviour is a drastic change in someone’s weight.
You may notice that they get light-headed when standing up, complain of digestive issues or always being cold no matter how warm the environment is, and look pale and tired. In women, their periods may have stopped.
Alternatively, binge eating disorder can lead to weight gain that even doctors can miss.
Not all eating disorders will show up in someone’s weight, so noticing changes in someone’s skin tone, general health and wellbeing is just as important.
6. GOING TO THE BATHROOM A LOT AFTER EATING
Often those with disordered eating feel the need to compensate for what they eat. Because of this you may notice evidence of purging behaviours, such as frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, signs and/or smells of vomiting and wrappers or packages of laxatives or diuretics.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
It can be difficult to know what to do if you’re worried that someone you know has an eating disorder. For one, they may not realise they have an eating disorder. They may also deny it, or be secretive and defensive about their eating or weight.
Pick a time when tensions aren’t running high and when the other person appears receptive and let them know you’re worried about them. Broach the topic gently, keeping in mind that despite how they appear, eating disorders are not just about food.
If your friend or loved one does admit to having an eating disorder, the most important thing to do is encourage them to get professional treatment. Don’t try to play therapist yourself. Specialists can help people understand more about their eating disorder and take important steps towards recovery.
The other way to help is informing yourself about eating disorders. There are many myths and misconceptions associated with eating disorders, which, if acted upon, can cause more damage than good. The person themselves may be very confused and scared about what they’re experiencing, and demonstrating a degree of understanding may serve to bridge the distance between you and their experience.
That being said, it’s crucial that you recognise and look after your own needs too. By keeping boundaries you can be a role model for self-care as well as an important source of support for them.
READ MORE: Overcoming An Eating Disorder With Katerina Berglas
We appreciate it can be incredibly hard to witness someone you care about going through so much pain, but reaching out to learn more about eating disorders can be the first step in helping them on their road to recovery.
It’s important to understand that recovery from an eating disorder can be challenging and takes time, but, especially with treatment, the chances of full recovery are good.
To discuss your concerns, you can contact Beat via:
If you’re based in America, you can reach out to the National Eating Disorder Association on:
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Beginners guide to starting a running routine this year
Whether you're looking for a new fitness challenge, gearing up for a 10k run, or simply aiming to get in shape - your running journey starts here!
Running is one of the most accessible ways to get fit, relieve stress, and boost mental health but it can also be intimidating if you’re just starting out. We’ve put together a simple guide to help you get moving safely and confidently this year.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Starting with a goal can make all the difference. Begin with something achievable, like running a specific distance or time, or simply going for three short runs a week. Avoid setting high expectations right away; this will help you stay motivated without the pressure.
2. Start Slowly
A common mistake beginners make is diving in too fast. Start with a mix of walking and running, such as the “run-walk” method. Try alternating a few minutes of running with a minute of walking, gradually increasing the running intervals each week.
3. Invest in Essential Gear
A quality pair of running shoes that matches your foot type and supports your stride can greatly reduce injury risk and enhance comfort. Moisture-wicking clothing will keep you dry, especially if you're running in various weather conditions. Adding a reliable set of headphones for music and a running vest can boost motivation and keep essentials within reach on your runs.
4. Warm Up and Cool Down
Warming up prepares your muscles for the workout and can improve your performance. Start with a 5-minute brisk walk or dynamic stretches. After running, spend a few minutes cooling down with gentle stretching to help prevent stiffness and soreness.
5. Track Your Progress
Using a journal, app, or smartwatch to track your runs helps you see progress over time and keeps you motivated. Start with a baseline run, and gradually push your limits by small increments each week. Seeing improvements, no matter how small, can give you a huge confidence boost.
6. Listen to Your Body
It’s normal to feel some discomfort as you start running, but pain is a red flag. If you feel sharp or persistent pain, take a rest day and allow yourself to recover. Proper rest is crucial for building endurance and strength over time.
7. Stay Consistent
Consistency is key in building a running routine. Aim for small, steady improvements each week rather than big jumps. Finding a running buddy, joining a local park run, or having an upbeat playlist can help you stay motivated on those days when getting out the door feels tough.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Whether it’s your first mile or first week without skipping a session, take time to celebrate! Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, can help keep you excited about your progress.
Starting a running routine can be a life-changing decision that builds not just physical fitness but also mental resilience. So, lace up, stay positive, and enjoy the journey—your goals are just a run away!
Shop AYBL for the latest activewear to keep you motivated in achieving your fitness goals this year!
Top Activewear pieces to achieve your goals this year
It’s the new year and you’re ready to crush your gym goals and reach new PB’s, which means it’s time to invest in some new activewear pieces and you're in luck! We've got an endless supply of activewear pieces to make you look good and feel good when crushing the gym. This is the year you to be the best version of yourself so let's get it!
Adapt
Our newest collection has just launched and is ready and waiting for you to crush your goals! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable in the gym. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
The best part about this collection is that it offers versatility with the Sports Bra which can be worn in 4 different ways so you can style it however you wish!
Launched in 6 colours: Black, Slate, Green, Brown, Pink and Iris Blue and available in the below styles:
- Seamless Sports bra (worn 4 ways)
- Seamless Zip Jacket
- Seamless Crop top
- Seamless Shorts
- Seamless Leggings
So flex your style, adapt to your strength, and crush your goals with our latest Adapt collection. Shop here.
Empower
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in many styles such as Leggings, Shorts, Sports Bra, Crop top, Long Sleeve crop top and available in 26 colours you’ll be spoilt for choice!
So push your limits and look your best in our Empower Collection. Shop here.
Balance V3
Balance V3 is another one of our bestsellers and not to mention - a workout wardrobe essential! It supports you from daily workouts to PB achievements. With contour detailing, flattering v neckline shaping, and bold colours, it's a collection worth exploring.
Available in Shorts, Leggings, Sports Bra, Strappy Sports Bra, Zip Jacket & Crop Top and in 26 different colours - this collection is perfected for your performance to help smash your goals. Shop Balance V3 here.
Essential Bras
These are a must-have for any workout wardrobe, and we've got a range of flattering styles and colours to suit any leggings or shorts. Whether you prefer a classic racerback or something with a little more support, our essential bras are perfect for an effortless range of movements.
Shop Essential Bras here
So there you have it, outfits with your name on - ready for you to crush your goals this year! Remember, the right activewear not only enhances your performance but also motivates you to show up and give your best every day. If you're looking for even more collections or accessories to style with, head over to our website.
AYBL Now Available in JD Sports
WE’VE GOT BIG NEWS! 👀
We’re thrilled to announce that AYBL is now available in JD Sports stores across the UK, Scotland & Ireland!
You can now shop AYBL in real life at selected JD stores across the UK, Scotland, and Ireland. Discover our latest releases alongside your favourite best-sellers, all designed to fit your active lifestyle. Here’s everything you need to know about our in-store collections:
What are some of the store locations?
What items can you shop in-store?
Empower Collection
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports bra
- Full Zip Jacket
- Leggings
- Shorts
Adapt Collection
Get your hands on our newest collection launched this month! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable, and help you smash your gym goals. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports Bra
- Zip Jacket
- Leggings
Varsity Collection
Varsity, our trendiest loungewear collection yet. With a cool and playful edge, each piece is designed for comfort and effortless style. Varsity is the ultimate upgrade to your off-duty essentials. Made to wear as a pump cover or as a lounging set, it's everyone's go-to fit.
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
Not only have we launched in-store, but you can also shop AYBL online at JD Sports! Whether you prefer the ease of browsing from home or a fun shopping trip with the girls, JD is here to enhance your shopping experience with us like never before!
One collection that deserves your attention is the Sports Club Collection. Made for ultimate comfort, it features soft fleece-lined sweat fabric and an oversized fit, making it perfect to layer over your activewear for the gym or wear as a cozy lounging set. It’s the go-to fit everyone’s loving!
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt
This is just the beginning—we can’t wait to see you shop AYBL IRL! Visit your nearest JD store to explore our AYBL fits’, and don’t forget to share your experience on socials by tagging us. See you there! Shop the full range of AYBL online at JD or visit us in-store to discover your favourites today!