Mental

Chapter 7

Ella continued to gain weight slowly over the next few weeks. Even though she was getting better physically, mentally she still didn't feel great. That's when Ashton came up with an idea.

"Do you think you would be interested in joining a teen group for kids struggling with an eating disorder?" Ashton asked.

Ella shrugged. "What would I have to do?"

"Well, the first time you can just sit and listen to other's tell their story. If you feel comfortable talking you can. It's a safe place where you can share your struggles and get advice from other teens." Ashton said.

Ella nodded. "I guess I'll try it."

Ashton nodded. He was glad she was willing to try.
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A couple days later, Ella was going to the group for the first time. It was in the same building but in a bigger room. All the chairs were in a circle so that everyone was able to see everyone. Ashton came with Ella the first time just so she could get comfortable.

The room was filled with mostly girls but there were a couple guys. Everyone was at different places in their recovery. Some just starting off and others still towards the beginning. The counselor leading the group was Ms Emily. She was a young but a very bright counselor who was very dedicated to her job.

"Ok everyone. We have a new person joining us today. So why don't we go around and introduce ourselves." Ms Emily said.

The girl sitting to her right went first. "Hi, I'm Tessa. I struggle with anorexia, depression and anxiety. I just started my journey in recovery. I've been here for a couple of weeks and it has been helping me to stay strong during this time."

The next person was a guy. "Hi, I'm Liam. I struggle with Bulimia, self harming and depression. I've been here for quite awhile and I love getting to see these beautiful faces every week." Everyone awed.

It went around the circle until it came to Ella.

"I don't know what to say." Ella said.

"That's ok. Just tell us what your struggling with and what you want to achieve out of this group." Ms Emily said.

Ella nodded. "I'm Ella, I struggle with anorexia, depression and anxiety. I also self harm. I just want to try and get better and thought this group might help."

Ms Emily nodded. "That's good Ella."

Ella could feel Ashton give her a pat on the shoulder and she gave him a small smile.

The group had topics they talked about each week and the topic this week was talking about anorexia. People were allowed to raise their hand if they wanted to talk and share their ideas. Ella listened, letting the group setting sink in.

When they were done with group, Ashton pulled her to the side to talk with her.

"How was that?" He asked.

"It was ok. I think I like it. I don't know if I will talk a lot though." Ella said.

"That's ok. It might take a while but you did good today. I'm proud of you." Ashton said, giving her a hug.

Ella was proud of herself. She did something she thought she would never do. Join a teen help group. She went to sleep that night proud that she accomplished something amazing.