Helplines in Canada.

Hotline support for eating disorders and body image concerns is available in Canada.

It's normal to feel disatisfied with the way your body looks some days. But you don't deserve to feel this way most days. Poor body image can lead to disordered eating. If you have any of the following symptoms, there are 8 free hotlines in Canada that can help you:

• Skipping meals on a regular basis.
• Dizziness and potentially fainting.
• Shifting food around on your plate so it looks like you’ve eaten more than you have.
• Feeling guilty, ashamed, and disgusted after eating too much or after eating the “wrong” foods.
• Eating large portions of food and being unable to control yourself or extreme food restriction.
• Sudden weight loss or weight gain.
• Excessive thinking about food, eating, and body weight or shape.
• Growth of a fine layer of hair on the body called lanugo.

You may feel like you have to hide your eating and body image issues. You may feel ashamed or guilty for having bad thoughts about your body and for using harmful behaviors to control your weight. The prospect of telling someone about what you're experiencing can be scary.

Talking to someone about what you're experiencing can bring up uncomfortable feelings. You may wonder whether a stranger will understand you or how they can help. Crisis line counselors in Canada are trained to help people cope with problems like yours. They will listen to you, support you, and give you appropriate guidance.

If you think you might need support with disordered eating or body image today, consider contacting a helpline in Canada for free, confidential help.