I’ve lost 2st in two months due to worrying about loved one – I have no real appetite…please help

EXPERT advice from Dr Zoe Williams, our resident specialist and NHS GP

Q: I HAVE lost 2st in two months due to worrying about the health of a family member.

This has been down to a combination of over-exercising and under-eating.

I now have no real appetite and little interest in food. I’m aware I need to do something about it but  don’t know how to before things spiral out of control.

A: You have taken the first step – which is huge –   by recognising there is a problem and reaching out for help to change. 

You do not say whether the health of your loved one has improved, which can make it difficult to break out of the cycle if you are still shouldering those  worries. 

Make an appointment with your GP to discuss what has happened, how you are struggling and that you need  help to reassess your relationship with food. 

You are describing disordered eating, which is usually a symptom of emotional issues. If not dealt with, it can lead to an eating disorder. So it is important to seek talking- therapy and you can self refer for this on the NHS website if you prefer. 

All too often when we feel like we cannot control events in our lives, we focus on things such as  food, which   we can control.

You have developed a pattern and cycle that may need some help in breaking. 

But you have taken a really positive step, so be proud of yourself for that. Do keep in touch and let me know how you get on.  

Your pattern of behaviour currently is still relatively new at two months but it is  vital to access help now so you can get back to being the way you were.

E-mail Dr Zoe: Health@thesun.co.uk