BellaOnline Forums Beauty and Self Body Image Young Girls and Laxative Use

I have had a regular customer at the store I work at for a few months now. She is about 13-15 years old, I think average height and weight, and cute. I noticed her right off because she comes and buys a package of laxatives everytime I am working. The other girls I work with say that is all she buys when she comes in. I thought I might be jumping to the wrong conclusion, but lately the weather has been in the upper 90's and into the 100's and she comes in the store in sweats and a hooded sweatshirt. Is this a growing problem with young girls? Do we need to lobby for these aids to be kept behind the counter? I just want to take this poor girl and hug her. I just feel helpless ringing up these darned pills and sending her on her way. Thanks for reading.

Poor kid... Sounds like she may have a problem.She will get help when she is ready as often in the midst of the illness they go into complete denial that they have a problem.

Hi, Fishwife. You're a kind soul to care enough to look for help. It sounds to me like you're right -- she has a problem. Of course, it may or may not be body image related. I believe laxatives are also used as a drug additive. Either way, she needs help. Lots of people need help. It's sad. First, I'd suggest speaking to your manager. Find out if the store has a policy for repeat purchasers. They may already have a system in place. If not, perhaps your manager can help you come up with an appropriate solution. I wouldn't advise taking action alone. She has a right to purchase whatever legal substance she chooses, and if she does have a problem, I doubt she'd take kindly to a stranger's intervention. See if you can get professional guidance to help her. Good luck!

Laxatives were a popular way to lose weight many many years ago. Ford Pills were what they were called. It is hard to watch some one suffering like she is, probably sees herself as big but she will take no notice of any help you try to give until she is ready.

All you can do is offer her a friendly smile.

I have been taking laxative pills. They are cheaper than diet pills and are said to work great. This friend of mine can't stop taking them or else she has trouble going. I started taken them cause I have it in my head that I am a fatty. I feel bad for that girl, cause I know what she is going through. I can't think of anything you could say to her either. When you have that in your head there is no way to get it out.

When you say, "when you have that in your head there is no way to get it out" makes me think of it like an addiction, similar to overeating or even gambling or drinking. But there is a way to overcome it -- people do conquer their addictions! It's hard, I know, but I think you can get it out of your head. I quit smoking a few years ago, and it took about a year to really stop craving cigarettes. Maybe I should write an article about overcoming food/eating addictions, like laxative use, overeating, purging, etc? What do you think?