How do I ask for help when I've denied the ED for so long?

It's super hard to ask for help to begin with, and can be even harder if it's from people who you have been denying the problem to for so long. For me, I had to remember that the reason it kept coming up was that people cared about me and wanted to help and were just waiting for me to be ready to accept that help. I think it helps to figure out what a first step that someone can help you with is. For me, when I first reached out, I was terrified of actual treatment or even seeing a therapist, so I asked my friends to help me look into other options that felt less formal. They found a support group and went with me the first time, which was really helpful. And they were good about not pushing me into things I wasn't ready for. For me, the biggest thing about asking for help was being clear about what I did and didn't want help with and being honest when things weren't helpful. My friends didn't know how to best support me, and for a while neither did I, but we worked through it together and talked about it a lot, which improved it for both of us. Hope that helps!

Don't think about it, just ask! As soon as you say the sentence 'I have a problem and need help', the help will come straight away.

It may help you to speak to a coach, teacher, or other trusted adult about your situation. It will get you comfortable talking about it, and you won't need to get straight to "Mom/Dad/(other person) I think I have ______, I need help" because that can be intimidating. Take baby steps and before you know it, you'll be on your way to recovery :) Best of wishes!

It is always a good time to search for help! First, try talking to people you trust and who are able to help you (e.g. parents) and then seek for a professional help. It's easier to say it straight, without detours. Find a nice people who won't judge you.

Accept it. Accept that you have an eating disorder and that it is something that affects you. It does not have to *define* you, but it is a part of you.

By being honest about it and getting yourself evaluated by professionals. The longer you go on, the more damage you'll do to your body and health.

The ED should accept you any day. In the UK they just treat patients without judging them as they have a job but that is not to judge people. I am sure they will be more than happy to help you though :)

Getting help is the most important thing. Sometimes you just have to own up to the fact that you weren't being truthful, and in this case I doubt anyone would mind if it means you can get help. Having an ED myself, I know how scary it can be to tell people, and also how it can even feel like you've been in denial to yourself about it. If you feel nervous telling the people closest to you, perhaps try telling some other friends to build up some support and get used to telling people. Or maybe try to find a counsellor you can tell to start with, often schools and universities have free counsellors, or you can often access free counselling through a youth health centre or doctor if you're under 25. I'm so proud of you for taking the first steps of admitting your ED and starting to ask for help. I wish you all the best