26 Feb 2018

Realising that you or someone you know might have an eating disorder can be overwhelming. But Eating disorders, while serious, are treatable, and it is very possible to make a full and sustained recovery.

As part of Eating Disorders Awareness Week, (26 February – 4 March), NHS St Helens Clinical Commissioning Group is encouraging people to get help as soon as they realise something might be wrong.

Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses. Anyone, no matter what their age, gender, or background, can develop one. Some examples of eating disorders include bulimia, binge eating disorder, and anorexia. There’s no single cause and people might not have all symptoms for any one eating disorder.

The earlier someone is able to access treatment, the better their chance of recovery. It’s never too late to seek support.

Dr Laura Pogue local GP said: “Eating disorders can be a way of coping with feelings or situations that are making a person unhappy, angry, depressed, stressed, or anxious. They are not the fault of the person suffering, and no one chooses to have an eating disorder.

“Sometimes people worry about talking to someone because they feel their eating disorder isn’t serious enough, they don’t want to worry people or waste their time, or because they feel guilty, embarrassed or ashamed.

“If you are worried about yourself or someone you know speak to your GP. They will not judge and can offer helpful and confidential advice and support.”

For more information, help and advice on eating disorders, visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/eating-disorders/ or https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/