The Eating Disorders Association website features a checklist of questions that a potential sufferer can ask themselves to see whether or not they may have a problem. For example: ‘Does food occupy your thoughts day and night?’; ‘Do you feel fear, anger or guilt when faced with food?’ If you answer ‘yes’ to these or any of the other seven questions, it is their considered opinion that you may have a problem. You can text your concerns to them on 07977 493345.

The National Centre for Eating Disorders offers a counselling service to both sufferers and their friends and family. Their website is also full of useful information, which is free, but if you decide to opt for an assessment, the charge is £30.00. They offer a self-help programme, a telephone or personal counselling service and have a network of counsellors all over the country. If you want further information on the programmes they offer, call them on 0845 838 2040.

There is, of course, treatment available on the NHS, but your friend will need to be referred by her GP first.

All of this, I am sure, sounds rather alarming, but I think you have taken a vital first step in identifying a potential problem. It could be that you have ‘caught it’ in time, and that she will be sufficiently shocked by your level of response to take a long hard look at her eating ‘issues’ and deal with them herself.

Ultimately, you cannot get well for her, but, as you have already demonstrated, you can provide help and support. I hope, that in time, she will realise what a good and loyal friend you are and how brave you have been in speaking out about her problem.

Good luck!

Debbie