I’M WORRIED MY ANOREXIA WILL RETURN

Dear Coleen

I’m 21 and about to start university. I am delighted to have been accepted on to a course that I feel so passionate about. However, I have struggled with severe anorexia and depression for 10 years.

I have been quite stable for the past three years, but I feel like I’m relapsing. My eating and thoughts have been going downhill for a few months now, as I am so anxious about moving away.

I’m worried that when I move I will get even worse as there is no one there to force me to eat or to stop me from exercising. I’m scared about telling my GP I’m struggling again in case they contact the university and I’m not allowed to go. I missed three years of education because of anorexia.

I feel trapped because I don’t want to worry my family and I don’t want my doctors or university finding out.

Coleen says

Worrying about people finding out is only increasing the stress you’re under and making things worse. Anything you say to your doctor will be treated in confidence, but he or she can really help take pressure off by contacting your new GP at uni, and you could also be referred to a dietician and counsellor, so you have a support network when you move.

I understand your worries about telling the university about your condition, but again, if you’re open with them, then it might help take the pressure off. They will have had many students through their doors with eating disorders and it’s in their best interests for you to succeed.

Universities have counselling services and I recommend you get in touch with the Student Minds charity, as it has eating disorder support groups. Find out more by visiting studentminds.org.uk/ eating-disorder-groups.

And please confide in your parents – I’m sure they would far rather know how you’re feeling.