What to do first depends on the condition of your child. There are several options. Any emergency always requires a call to 911. Just let me say that first.
I scheduled an appointment with my teen's pediatrician. If possible, schedule this appointment with a doctor that specializes in eating disorders. During the physical, it is helpful to ask that blood work be done. It's important to look for several things, including electrolyte imbalance (low potassium) which can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. Liver & kidney damage and several other serious medical conditions can and do result from starvation and purging. This is an extremely dangerous disease and cannot be left untreated.
So, an accurate assessment of your teen's medical condition is a must.
What worked for me, was to schedule the initial appointment as if it was a routine physical. There was no discussion, no negotiating. Her illness didn't want to be found out. It's entirely possible that your teen will resist or even refuse to go to a doctor.
After assessing the severity of your teen's medical condition, a course of treatment will be discussed with you.
Find a therapist that has had experience with treating eating disorders. See if your teen can be honest with you about when the ED behaviors first started, including just thoughts about the ED and distorted body image.
Assessing the onset and longevity of the illness is helpful information for all involved.
An accurate assessment of mind and body will give you a starting point and direction for the next steps.
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