1*: an irresistible persistent impulse to perform an act.

It's really hard for a person to stop it because after doing it for some time the body/mind starts to accept it as something normal. Eating disorders are very complex things that shouldn't be taken as something small.

I'd advice you to try talking to your friend and convincing her of seeing a counselor or talking about it with an adult, so that she can find proper help. Eating disorders have long lasting repercussions on a person's life and the sooner they're threated the better.

You can find more information here:
Eating Disorders
National Eating Disorder Information Centre
Something Fishy.

Good Luck.

:)

-------
You'll never get to heaven if you are scared of getting high.

I'm not an expert on this - but I have seen several friends suffer from eating disorders and none of them managed to overcome anything without the help of a professional. I'd really advise her to talk to a counsellor. Most schools provide free counselling, but if not, she can go to her doctor and ask about therapy sessions. Eating disorders start in the mind - they're not primarily physical disorders, and they often have a root course which can be uncovered in therapy sessions.

In the meantime - support her. Be there to listen to her and to help her, but don't force her to eat or to stop what she's doing - it won't work, and will most likely result in her increasing her behaviour out of stress. Good luck :)

-------
oh, baby it's a wild word, and it's hard to get by just upon a smile
be the change you wish to see in the world