My friend has low self esteeme. What things can I do to help her?!

My friend has low self esteeme. What things can I do to help her?

My friend has been in abusive relationships since she was a child, we're both in our early 30's. I've gotten to become a realy close friend to her over the last few weeks and I want to know what things I can do to help her through her current issues with her health, eating disorder (very underweight), abusive long-term bf who she makes out their relationship is going good, but knows deep down that its just wrong for her and says she's gonig to break it off when she gets her health back (who knows when that is). Dont want to go into it, but there's a lot of things that havent gone right for her. I liten to her when she has stuff she wants to tell me - like staying up all night long hearing about the terrible things that have happened to her in her life. Since I've been hanging out with her we talk, laugh, listen to music and go dancing at clubs which she realy loves to do. I try and be supportive but wonder what else I can do? Is it just a matter of time? Will she ever get "better" ?

You are one sweet, caring fella, and your friend is darned lucky to have you for her friend! I'm sorry to hear she has an eating disorder--the abusive BF probably has alot to do with that--they usually do! I don't think there is much else you can do, just be there for her whenever she needs you. Keep doing the things you are doing now, eventually she will turn her life around. Don't bug her about the eating problem, that will only drive her deeper into denial. I have a feeling she will soon find you to be the one person she wants to be with all the time and give the other guy the boot. She may need some counseling/therapy to help her with her health problem, just don't give up on her. You are the best thing she's got, and I bet she knows it, but may not be ready to admit it. Hang in there friend, your friendship will pay off. Best wishes to the both of you.