Need some advise about my best friend.

I'd be really grateful for some advice on this.

I've been worrying about my best friend for a while now, she's 15, 5"2 and 79lbs- how serious is this? She hasn't said that she's anorexic and I didn't really want to say it in case it upset her. She hasn't really told anyone but me and she recently asked me to help her write up an eating plan. She hasn't got a nutritionaist and I really want to support her in getting better, should I tell her to speak to her doctor about it or just help her(she's already seeing her doctor)

I feel really uncomfortable and just don't know what to say to her when she opens up to me, especially when she cries. I feel completely useless; should I ask her how she's doing, encourage her, or just not make a big deal about it and just pretend its all normal? (She's only put on 4lbs in the last 2-3 months)

Sorry if this is in the wrong section, I'm pretty new. Thanks x. 

 

Well she is taking the steps to gain weight so that is great. You should be there for her when she need you and support her. I would not hurt her to talk to a nutritionist and get a plan that will help her gain. But It sounds like all she wants from you is to be the one person she can really talk to. Sure you can ask her how she is doing just don't feel like you need to ask her everyday. If she seems to be having a bad day ask. You are just being a good friend. Hope this helps.

Try this website:

Something Fishy.org

In the lefthand side bar, look for Helping Loved Ones.  They have lots of good advice for friends and family.

I teach in a high school, and I know that there is a nurse who comes in once a week to provide completely free, completely confidential health care.  I don't know if there's something like that in the school your friend attends or in your community, but if there is, that might be something to suggest as a way for getting good nutrition and health advice.

Your friend has taken an important step in talking to you.  Since you are best friends, you obviously care very much about her.  Help her as much as she lets you and wants you to, and hopefully she will continue to gain weight in a healthy way.  But, if she starts to lose more weight and won't listen to your concerns, you might need to make a hard decision and tell someone else (like your parents or hers) that you're worried about her health.

Good luck!

Thanks for taking the time to post these replies people. Much appreciated.