Too skinny

[Moving forward happy]

I don’t know what to do, my sister growing up was always over weight and over recent years she has lost a lot and was loving how she looked, but in recent times her weight has dropped so much that it’s starting to scare me. She is very unhealthy, looks like skin and bones but in her mind she still feels fat and panicks whenever she puts on any weight. I have spoken with her and tried to be as honest and open as I can be but I don’t know how to support her, I don’t know what to do next to actually get her the help that she needs, financially neither of us have a great deal of money either. If any one could tell me what worked for them or any resources I could use it would be much appreciated.

[Scared]

Its a good thing you have posted on here.  It sounds like your sister has a pyschological disorder called Anorexia Nervosa.   An eating disorder..  One where the person obsesses over weight gain and cannot see in the mirror they are too thin.   This is a very serious condition and if left untreated it can cause serious lifelong health concerns and even death.  Your sister needs therapy to beat this disease and you should go to your doctor with your sister if she will go with you.   Talk to doctor about a Mental Health care plan to see a therapist specialising in Anorexia.  Also go online to learn about this disease so you can understand as much as you can about it.   Another similar disease is called Bulimia whereby the person eats well but then throws up to avoid weight gain.   To see a counsellor it doesnt always mean you have to pay money.

You can call lifeline or go online for Anorexia support    Your sister is very lucky to have you

[Moving forward happy]

thank you so much for responding, I have had multiple thoughts to do something about this but then she tells me she is fine, it wasn’t until I saw a recent photo that really shocked me into action. Thank you so much for this information I will do some research and book an appointment at the doctors this week. 

[Scared]

Your welcome

[BlueLily]

Hi Moving forward happy,

Scared has shared very useful tips. I want to add something I found helpful.

My sister started loosing lot of weight as well and I heard her saying things like "my arms are giggly" although her arms look perfect. So I did some research on how to positively influence her.

Rather than just saying "you look beautiful" which is a standard expected praise, commenting like "love the way you dress with so much pride" and "you look very confident" can have a much more impact on girls to realise that they in fact are perfect and gain more confidence in their own body. Also shifting focus from calories or weight to healthy eating habits is a good choice. I try to show my sister that I myself don't cut down food or avoid meals but rather swap unhealthy meals to healthier ones. I find food she likes to eat and try to home cook so it's healthier and less processed food in them. And then pack her lunch myself in a very appealing way with a bit of cut up fruit and a piece of something sweet but not totally unhealthy  like a fruit cake or biscuit.

You sister is indeed very lucky to have you.