Let's talk life - Losing weight

• Losing weight

Dear Counsellor,

My teenage daughter has been refusing her food because she wants to be slim. She is losing weight and she vomits frequently. Does she have an eating disorder?

- Tiffany

Dear Tiffany,

Your daughter could be having an eating disorder. Eating disorders can affect teenage girls who have a body image problem. Some girls want to look like models to boost their self-esteem and sex appeal. These girls need to be admitted to hospital where their nutrition can be addressed and counselling is done. Treatment is a family affair where members support each other as the patient regains her weight.

Teenagers are caught up with issues to do with self-image and sex appeal. Teenage girls want to look attractive and feel good about themselves. To attain these goals, they will go to great lengths. Many get depressed or anxious and fall victim to substance use. Youth is a time for experimenting and rebelling against the rules.

Your daughter will need counselling to deal with the stresses of life.

• Time on my hands

Dear Counsellor,

I have been married for 30 years and my children are grown. I find myself with lots of time on my hands. I have become more active in my church and community.

- Maria

Dear Maria,

When the children are adults, parents have more time on hand to give back to our communities. Maybe you could foster a child or help out at a neighbouring children's home. Giving back to the society is a noble deed. You can look forward to grandchildren and you can help to raise them. Keep up to date with your children and be involved in social activities. Rediscover your husband and romance him. Go out together and enjoy music, plays, and parties. Reignite the flames of passion. It is time to write a book or two. The senior population has a lot to pass on to the younger generation. Rediscover your youth and enjoy life.

Email questions and feedback for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call 978-8602.