Eating Disorders

You’re Not Alone – Let’s Talk About Eating Disorders

In a tough moment?

Call or text 988 anytime — free, confidential, 24/7.
Prefer texting? Try Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741

The 988 Lifeline is for everyone. Through the 988 Lifeline, you have access to free, quality, one-on-one assistance. Skilled, judgment-free counselors are here to provide compassionate support. You deserve to feel heard and cared about anytime, anywhere, 24/7/365.

Understanding Eating Disorders

Eating disorders aren’t just about food. They’re serious mental health conditions that affect how you see yourself, how you feel, and your overall health and well-being. 

Anyone can experience eating disorders, no matter where you live. And the sooner you get treatment, the better chance you have for recovery.

Common Signs of Eating Disorders

Everyone’s experience is different, but some signs that you or someone you know may be struggling with an eating disorder might include:

• Worrying constantly about food, calories, and dieting.

• Being obsessed with weight, body size, and shape. 

• Skipping meals or eating very little.

• Eating a lot at once and feeling out of control.

• Exercising in extreme or unhealthy ways.

• Losing or gaining a lot of weight.

• Feeling weak, tired, and dizzy.

• Avoiding eating meals with friends or family.

• Feeling guilty, ashamed, or anxious about eating.

What Can Eating Disorders Look Like in Rural Life?

Living in a small town, a rural community, or on a farm can sometimes make eating disorders harder to recognize and harder to talk about. You might:

• Feel pressure to be “tough” and keep your struggles to yourself.

• Worry about what others will think if you ask for help – especially since everyone knows everyone.

• Think that there’s nowhere to turn without many local resources.

But remember – reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.

What Can Help?

Treatment for eating disorders works and recovery is possible. Support might look like:

• Letting a trusted friend, family member, teacher, or coach know what you’re going through and asking them for help.

• Meeting with a doctor, counselor, or therapist (in person or online).

• Using free and confidential national hotlines and text lines for connection and advice – find some listed below.

• Focusing on your overall mental health, like getting enough sleep and learning healthy coping skills.

You’ve Got Options — Even in Rural Areas.

If local care feels limited, you still have choices:

• Your healthcare provider or school counselors and nurses can connect you with help.

• Telehealth – many healthcare providers offer video appointments.

• Online support groups are available where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through.

Resources That Can Help  

If you or someone you know is struggling, here are some places you can turn for help:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 if you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or unsafe.

• National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) – Free support groups and mentorship.

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) – Information, helplines, and screening tools.

• Rural Minds Mental Health Resources

Do you think you need some support for an eating disorder? Take NEDA’s short screening here to find out what kind of help may be right for you.

You Are Not Alone

Getting help takes courage. And no matter where you live, there are people ready to listen and support you. Healing is possible and it starts with reaching out.

Return to Rural Youth Mental Wellness “Resources By Topic” webpage.