'I look normal and I’m not sure if I have an eating disorder’.

Some people think that because someone looks ‘normal’ then they can’t have an eating disorder or difficulties with food and eating.  We can look ‘normal’ (Whatever normal means!) but still have all these thoughts, feelings, worries, concerns etc. going on underneath. As far as we are concerned, if someone says that they have difficulties with food and eating and that it affects their life in some way, then they may have an eating disorder or eating distress and need help and support. 

Eating disorders come in many different forms and most people who have problems with food and eating do not meet all of the diagnostic criteria set out in lists and manuals. See the box to the right for some of the different types of eating disorders and disordered eating we know of in the field. Please note: some of these eating disorders are very uncommon and we may not have experience of working with that particular eating disorder.

Most people with an eating disorder or disordered eating do not fit into a specific category. We are all different. The myths and stereotypes often portrayed by the media and medical profession are inaccurate and must be challenged

It is important to reassure you that Talking EDs provides help, support and information to anyone who feels that they have problems with food and eating and that affects their life negatively in some way.

Please do not worry about accessing services because you have been told you look ‘normal’ or that your problems, thoughts, feelings, or behaviours are not 'serious', 'distressing' or 'frequent' enough. People can look ‘normal’ and be of a ‘normal’ weight but are, underneath, very dsitressed and debilitated by their eating disordered thoughts, feelings and behaviours.  You deserve help and support from those who really understand and 'get it'.

After reading the information about eating disorders and disordered eating on the other pages of this website, you might be thinking 'Do I have a problem with food and eating?' or 'Do I have a difficult relationship with food and eating? We aim not to put labels on the people we work with (unless, of course they want a name for the type of eating problem they might be experiencing). We tend to look at the symptoms, behaviours, thoughts, feelings and any other signs that might demonstrate that you're having a difficult time with food and eating.

Below are some of the behaviours. thoughts and experiences you may be experiencing with food and eating. Remember: this is just a starting point and there are many other signs, symptoms and experiences that might also apply to you personally. Try the Eating Questionnaire below and become more aware of your relationship with food and eating