Speak Up, Heal Strong: Opening Up About Eating Disorders
Talking about eating disorders can feel scary. Maybe you’re afraid people won’t get it, or you worry they’ll judge you. You might even feel like your struggles aren’t “serious enough” to bring up.
Here’s the truth: you deserve to be heard.
Speaking up is a huge part of healing. Whether you're struggling with bingeing, restricting, obsessing over food, or feeling out of control — your story matters. This blog will walk you through why opening up is so important and how to do it in a way that feels safe and empowering.
Why It’s So Hard To Talk About
Let’s be real — eating disorders come with a ton of shame and secrecy. You might think:
“People will think I’m attention-seeking.”
“What if they don’t believe me?”
“I’m supposed to have it all together.”
These thoughts can make you feel stuck and silent. But silence only gives the disorder more power. Opening up breaks that cycle.
“When teens speak up about their eating struggles, it’s the first — and often most powerful — step toward recovery. It replaces secrecy with connection.”
Who You Can Talk To
You don’t have to shout it from the rooftops. Start small. Think about who you feel safe around:
A parent or family member
A school counsellor or nurse
A trusted teacher or coach
A friend who listens without judgment
You could say something like:
“I’ve been struggling with food and body stuff lately. Can we talk?”
“I’m scared and not sure what to do, but I think I need help.”
“I don’t feel okay, and I think it’s connected to how I eat and see myself.”
It’s okay if your voice shakes. It’s okay if you cry. What matters is that you’re speaking your truth.
What Happens Next
Once you speak up, a few things might happen — and that’s a good thing:
People may offer support or resources
You might be referred to a doctor, therapist, or dietitian
You’ll finally stop carrying the weight all by yourself
Talking doesn’t instantly fix everything, but it opens the door to healing, support, and feeling less alone. That’s powerful.
What If They Don’t Understand
Not everyone will get it right away. That doesn’t mean your experience is invalid.
If someone brushes it off, don’t give up. Try another adult or professional. There are people who will listen, care, and help — including doctors, therapists, and eating disorder helplines.
You deserve support. Keep reaching out until you get it.
Final Thought
Speaking up about an eating disorder is brave. It’s not a sign of weakness — it’s a move toward freedom.
You don’t have to have all the words. You don’t have to explain it perfectly. You just have to start.
You are not broken. You are not alone. And you are absolutely worth helping.
At Shout, we have around 80 conversations every day about eating disorders or body image. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it's important to know that there is support available and you can get better.
