Sister on self destruct.. Please help

[nolongeramug]

The short version is that my sister who is inher 30's has been on an extreme exercise and diet regime for a few years now... Has resulted in one collapse after 3 marathons in 24 hours (yes 72 miles in one go)
She is ultra thin, and obsessed with her weight and food, she had 4 rice crackers things this afternoon prior to an hours run.
I am the only one in the family who will say anything, but I get criticised for upsetting her.
We were at a family party today and she wouldn't touch the food, I had trouble keeping my temper.. I literally want to slap her silly.
My question is what the hell would you do?

I would contact someone who deals with eating disorders and gain their advice. I would also try and eat her to gp to discuss her eating and health.

If you can get her to go to the GP, ask them to refer you to the Eating Disorders team in your area.

Losing your temper wouldnt help her either. Theres not much that will help unless she wants to be helped. Its a horrible thing and must be heartbreaking to see.
For an insight into the mindset, i think the portia de rossi autobiography is really good www.amazon.co.uk/Unbearable-Lightness-Story-Loss-Gain/dp/0857204114/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1333876909&sr=8-1

That's an eating disorder. You need professional help on how to help your sister effectively.

Being angry at her will only make the problem worse.

I think doing ultra marathons is great, but she needs to eat properly. Can you appeal to her competitive side and talk to her about making sure she gets her nutrients to make sure she performs better and gets better times.
She must be eating, or she simply wouldnt be able to run like that. How have you tried to broach the subject so far?

There isn't a lot you can do, unfortunately, except to keep reminding her there's a problem and suggesting she see a doctor. She won't like it because she's in the grip of a delusional mental illness that results in totally irrational self-destructive behaviour. Your family are just sticking their heads in the sand by refusing to face up to it and their attitude is really not helping. Ultimately, it's up to her to seek the help but, if she doesn't think there's a problem, she won't do it.

FWIW I entirely understand your frustration and anger. Suicide is an supremely selfish act whether it's carried out overnight or over the course of years. A college friend died of a severe eating disorder and all attempts by myself and other friends to help or express concern were flung back at us because 'we just wanted her to be fat'... 'we were jealous'... etc. Some can't be saved

This is an excellent london based charity with a small network of counsellors

Eating Problems Service, 020 7602 0862, e-mail at [email protected]