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What Can I Do For My Bulimic Friend ?

I think my friend is bulimic or something. Because every time we have a party she eats a LOT and goes back for seconds like a million times. Then she goes to the bathroom and throws up. It's freaking me out. She acts like it's nothing unusual and says that she's ok, but I really don't think so. She also has family problems, and I'm worried. I can't change her family, but I wish she'd stop bingeing. I don't know what to do, help! - Val, 13, USA

"Hey, Val!" The first thing you should do is talk to a counselor. Someone, like an adult, needs to know whats going on. Her family should be confronted by a counselor of some sort. Maybe you could try to ask your friend REALLY what's going on, and dont settle untill she tells you, but try not to push it too far.

This is a serious problem and should be taken care of by a professional. She needs support from you as well! If it does get much worse, she may have to go to a Eating Disorder Rehabilitation center. I hope your friend gets better, and try your best to comfort her and ask her what is wrong. Hope it helped.

(Editor's Note: For suggestions from a professional on how to help your friend, try this website: http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/eating_disorders/beat_bulimia/)

Julie, 13, New York