Introduction

Sudden, noticeable weight loss canhappen after astressful event, although it can also be a sign of a serious illness. It's normal to lose a noticeable amount of weight after the stress of changing jobs, divorce, redundancy or bereavement . Weight often returns to normal when you start to feel happier, after you've had time to grieve or get used to the change. Counselling and support may be needed to help you get to this stage. Significant weight loss can also be the result of an eating disorder , such as anorexia or bulimia . If you think you have an eating disorder, talk to someone you trust and consider speaking to your GP.There are also several organisations you can talk to for information and advice, such as the eating disorders charity Beat . If your weight loss wasn't due to the above causes, and you didn't lose weight through dieting or exercising, see your GP, as you may have an illness that needs treating. The following information may give you a better ideaof the cause of your weight loss, butdon't useit to diagnose yourself. Always see a GP for a proper diagnosis.