In anorexia, self-starvation anaesthetises the individual to emotions. The person suffering from anorexia really has no thought for anything other than how much food they have eaten, what they weigh and what they will eat next. All their feelings are experienced in relation to food and thus other problems may seem to disappear or become more manageable. Kids Help Line provides a safe, accessible environment for young people to discuss their problems. Counsellors are able to provide support and empower the young person to feel more in control and to develop better coping mechanisms.
Young people can call back and speak to the same counsellor as they work through their problem.
Kids Help Line is also able to provide the young person with information about other agencies in the community which can provide additional support. Examples of these agencies include the Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa Foundation, Eating Disorders Association Inc and Women s Community Health Centres. 36 minutes talking to these young people each time they phone. When compared to an average of 19 minutes across all problems, the duration of counselling to young people who phone about eating behaviours is significantly longer. Twenty percent of those who phone are referred to other support services.