D (8)

99

THE DOLLY

DOCTOR PANEL

Q:

Q:

a:

a:

Wendy says:I am sorry to hear that things

have been really difficult for you. It sounds like

you were really close to your friends and now

things have changed. This is certainly a big loss for you.

Have you tried to talk to your friends about how you’re

feeling? Have you tried to talk to your mum or a school

counsellor? Friendships at any age can be stressful, but

in teen years it can be even more difficult as friendships

are incredibly important. Check out our Making Friends

Hot Topic at kidshelp.com.au/teens/get-info/hot-topics

for help with what you’re experiencing right now.

I was at the

same school for 11 years

but left because of Mum 's work. When

I moved, my friends ditched me. We were so

close - it was the eight of us against the world.

Now only four speak to me and the rest seem to

hate me. I know this proves who my real friends are

but it hurts because I have known them most of

my life. I love them so much and I cry myself

to sleep every night. Please help.

Amelia

DR CELINA

RAPPAPORT

General

practitioner

and clinical

tutor at Sydney

University

Medical School

DR MELISSA

KANG

General

practitioner

&lecturer,

Sydney

University

CHRISTINE

MORGAN

CEO, The

Butterfly

Foundation

WENDY

PROTHEROE

General

manager,

Kids Helpline

Christine says: It is important that you

discuss your concerns with your friend

in an open and honest way, aiming to

be non-judgemental, respectful and kind. Show them

you are genuinely concerned and avoid blaming

anyone (your friend or their family) for the problem.

Try to avoid making assumptions about the reasons

why. Be supportive and caring, and encourage your

friend to seek professional help. Also, be aware that

you might find it hard to listen to what they have to

say, especially if you don’t agree with what they are

actually revealing about themselves. Check in with

them regularly to see how they are going, and offer

ongoing support. You can read more on support

programs and direct your friend to the info page at

thebutterflyfoundation.org.au/support-programs. a

What do you do

when you think

a friend has an eating

disorder? Anonymous

GOT A PROBLEM?

Feel free to send all of your

anonymous questions to

dol [email protected].

And always remember that

these are FREE and

confidential services.

DOLLY

HEALTH