Are you concerned that you may have an eating disorder? Or worried you have a difficult relationship with food and/or exercise? These questions can bring up a lot of different emotions and questions. However - there is a lot of help and support available.
Working as part of the Counselling and Mental Health service, Mental Health Advisor Ella has written about what to do if you recognise disordered eating in yourself or others, practical steps for getting support, and how Counselling and Mental Health could support you.
Worried about having an eating disorder?
Eating disorders are common, there is an estimated 1.25 million people living with an eating disorder in the UK (ONS, 2017) and many different types of eating disorders. Often people believe eating disorders are only centred around food, without acknowledging the emotional side of the condition. Eating disorders can develop as a way of controlling difficult emotions by restricting or binging on foods to feel more in control. Sometimes this behaviour may not be obvious to an individual at the time, and getting support can help them in identifying this.
Research suggests that early intervention is key, and although it might be worrisome making the first step, the earlier you get support, the quicker you may recover. Yes, that’s correct, people do recover from an eating disorder and there are a lot of treatment options available. A common myth for people experiencing an eating disorder is that they are not ‘unwell enough’ to get support. This is not accurate as everyone is entitled to get support regardless of their symptoms; please do not let this be a barrier to you getting support.
The first step to getting support is to share your concerns with someone else, this can be a friend, family member or a professional. It can be daunting having the first conversation with somebody, therefore it is important that you feel comfortable with the person you are speaking to. A charity led organisation BEAT offers advice to individuals who may be presenting with symptoms of an eating disorder:
If you are wanting to get treatment for a suspected eating disorder your GP is the first port of call, they can help you coordinate support. Whilst it can be anxiety provoking speaking to your GP, sharing your concerns with someone can often be a big relief, and feel like a weight has been lifted. For guidance on what to say or expect from your initial appointment please refer to the GP ready document on the BEAT website.
Your GP may look at your weight, ask questions about any significant changes, listen to any concerns you may have or any emotional difficulties you have experienced. They will review your physical health and they may request a blood test. This is to assess any physical health changes that may have resulted from any disordered eating. The more honest and open you are with your GP, the more they can support you. The following resources may help you once you have reached out for support, and provide you with information about potential treatment options available:
Counselling and Mental Health Service at Middlesex University
You are not alone, we are here to help you. You may be unsure if now is the best time to seek support, or whether you need support in the first place - having a OneOff appointment with a member of our team will allow us to think this through with you. Although we are not part of the NHS, we can support you in making that first contact with your GP if it feels too big of a step to do alone. Our team is made up of Counsellors and Mental Health Advisors, and with consent from our students, we often have contact with GP’s to help bridge the gap between the university and NHS services. More information about our service and how to access support can be found here.
Helping someone else
Eating Disorders – what are the first signs?
Do you have a friend or family member that you have been worried about? Spotting the signs of an eating disorder can be crucial in supporting someone to get support. Research suggests that early intervention is key for a sustained recovery. The charity led organization BEAT have produced a poster on how to spot the signs to help individuals start their recovery.
There are a number of myths around eating disorders which causes stigma and can be one of the reasons why people delay getting help. Let’s bust some of these myths!
1) ‘Eating disorders are a choice’
Eating disorders are an enduring mental health condition and nota personal choice. Research suggests that they can be triggered by multiple factors; psychological, biological and social factors. Individuals are not attention seeking or vain; they can present with body dysmorphic thoughts and their relationship with food, body image and exercise can often be unhealthy. Those with symptoms may try and hide them to keep them a secret as they do not want to worry those around them.
2) ‘Only girls develop eating disorders’
Whilst the prevalence of eating disorders is higher in women, there is a lot of evidence to suggest that men may be more reluctant to seek help. Currently, statistics suggest that up to a quarter of those diagnosed are men. BEAT have produced guidance to encourage more men to seek help and get support.
3) ‘Recovery from an eating disorder is not possible’
Full recovery from an eating disorder with the right help and support is possible. It is important to recognise recovery may be different for each person. Empowering the individual and allowing them to set healthy goals can help promote recovery. Recovery may not be straight forward for everyone, and ups and downs can be common. It is vital that support is available along the way. Whilst you may feel frustrated with any setbacks, viewing them as learning opportunities and reminding yourself that recovery isn’t a linear process can be helpful. More information about the recovery journey can be found here.
Your role as a family member or friend in their recovery
The first step to helping someone start their recovery is to have a conversation about any concerns, and to help them get support. Whilst it may be difficult having the first conversation, it is crucial those conversations are not put off in order to prevent a delay in them getting treatment. Guidance on how to start the initial conversation can be found here.
Following the initial conversation, helping an individual book a GP appointment, and supporting them through the appointment may be helpful. Remember you are not expected to be the expert in this area and it is important to let the professionals help. Waiting lists for NHS services can be long, but there is a lot of additional support available in the interim. Information about treatment options can be found here.
Looking after yourself
It can be emotionally tiring supporting anyone with any mental health or physical health condition and therefore it is important that you look after yourself too. It is important to remember the rule of ‘putting your own oxygen mask on first!’ so you can provide the best support for those around you.
Counselling and Mental Health Service at Middlesex University
As a student at Middlesex, you are able to access support through our Counselling and Mental Health Service. We can help you understand what Mental Health support is available (both within MDX and outside) and coordinate your access to it. More information about our services can be found here.
Your role as a family member or friend in their recovery
The first step to helping someone start their recovery is to have a conversation about any concerns, and to help them get support. Whilst it may be difficult having the first conversation, it is crucial those conversations are not put off in order to prevent a delay in them getting treatment. Guidance on how to start the initial conversation can be found here.
Following the initial conversation, helping an individual book a GP appointment, and supporting them through the appointment may be helpful. Remember you are not expected to be the expert in this area and it is important to let the professionals help. Waiting lists for NHS services can be long, but there is a lot of additional support available in the interim. Information about treatment options can be found here.
Looking after yourself
It can be emotionally tiring supporting anyone with any mental health or physical health condition and therefore it is important that you look after yourself too. It is important to remember the rule of ‘putting your own oxygen mask on first!’ so you can provide the best support for those around you.
Counselling and Mental Health Service at Middlesex University
As a student at Middlesex, you are able to access support through our Counselling and Mental Health Service. We can help you understand what Mental Health support is available (both within MDX and outside) and coordinate your access to it. More information about our services can be found here.
BEAT the eating disorder charity provides a lot of support for carers, including helplines, support groups and information on local services available. More information can be found here.
Carers Support
As a carer for anyone with a mental or physical health condition, you are entitled to a carers assessment. Furthermore, there is a lot of support available to ensure you are equipped and supported in your caring role. Carers UK are a charity supporting carers; you can access information on support available for carers via their website www.carersuk.org or their helpline on 0808 808 7777.
Podcasts
There are many different podcasts that are available to support those with an eating disorder, or those caring for someone with an eating disorder.
ED Matters
The recovery warrior
Butterfly- let’s talk
Books
Life Hurts: A Doctor's Personal Journey Through Anorexia- Elizabeth McNaught
Skills-based Learning for Caring for a Loved One with an Eating Disorder: The New Maudsley Method (2nd edition)- Janet Treasure, Gráinne Smith and Anna Crane
February Wellbeing Spotlight- Eating Disorders
Working as part of the Counselling and Mental Health service, Mental Health Advisor Ella has written about what to do if you recognise disordered eating in yourself or others, practical steps for getting support, and how Counselling and Mental Health could support you.
Worried about having an eating disorder?
Eating disorders are common, there is an estimated 1.25 million people living with an eating disorder in the UK (ONS, 2017) and many different types of eating disorders. Often people believe eating disorders are only centred around food, without acknowledging the emotional side of the condition. Eating disorders can develop as a way of controlling difficult emotions by restricting or binging on foods to feel more in control. Sometimes this behaviour may not be obvious to an individual at the time, and getting support can help them in identifying this.
Research suggests that early intervention is key, and although it might be worrisome making the first step, the earlier you get support, the quicker you may recover. Yes, that’s correct, people do recover from an eating disorder and there are a lot of treatment options available. A common myth for people experiencing an eating disorder is that they are not ‘unwell enough’ to get support. This is not accurate as everyone is entitled to get support regardless of their symptoms; please do not let this be a barrier to you getting support.
The first step to getting support is to share your concerns with someone else, this can be a friend, family member or a professional. It can be daunting having the first conversation with somebody, therefore it is important that you feel comfortable with the person you are speaking to. A charity led organisation BEAT offers advice to individuals who may be presenting with symptoms of an eating disorder:
Do I have an eating disorder?
What are the types of eating disorders?
Telling someone you have an eating disorder
Practical Steps for getting support
If you are wanting to get treatment for a suspected eating disorder your GP is the first port of call, they can help you coordinate support. Whilst it can be anxiety provoking speaking to your GP, sharing your concerns with someone can often be a big relief, and feel like a weight has been lifted. For guidance on what to say or expect from your initial appointment please refer to the GP ready document on the BEAT website.
Your GP may look at your weight, ask questions about any significant changes, listen to any concerns you may have or any emotional difficulties you have experienced. They will review your physical health and they may request a blood test. This is to assess any physical health changes that may have resulted from any disordered eating. The more honest and open you are with your GP, the more they can support you. The following resources may help you once you have reached out for support, and provide you with information about potential treatment options available:
Treatment for Eating Disorders (NICE guidelines)
MIND guidance on support for someone with an eating disorder
Local support for someone with an eating disorder
Support Service available through BEAT
What is recovery from an eating disorder?
Counselling and Mental Health Service at Middlesex University
You are not alone, we are here to help you. You may be unsure if now is the best time to seek support, or whether you need support in the first place - having a OneOff appointment with a member of our team will allow us to think this through with you. Although we are not part of the NHS, we can support you in making that first contact with your GP if it feels too big of a step to do alone. Our team is made up of Counsellors and Mental Health Advisors, and with consent from our students, we often have contact with GP’s to help bridge the gap between the university and NHS services. More information about our service and how to access support can be found here.
Helping someone else
Eating Disorders – what are the first signs?
Do you have a friend or family member that you have been worried about? Spotting the signs of an eating disorder can be crucial in supporting someone to get support. Research suggests that early intervention is key for a sustained recovery. The charity led organization BEAT have produced a poster on how to spot the signs to help individuals start their recovery.
Click here to learn more about the first signs of an Eating Disorder
Eating Disorder Myths
There are a number of myths around eating disorders which causes stigma and can be one of the reasons why people delay getting help. Let’s bust some of these myths!
1) ‘Eating disorders are a choice’
Eating disorders are an enduring mental health condition and nota personal choice. Research suggests that they can be triggered by multiple factors; psychological, biological and social factors. Individuals are not attention seeking or vain; they can present with body dysmorphic thoughts and their relationship with food, body image and exercise can often be unhealthy. Those with symptoms may try and hide them to keep them a secret as they do not want to worry those around them.
2) ‘Only girls develop eating disorders’
Whilst the prevalence of eating disorders is higher in women, there is a lot of evidence to suggest that men may be more reluctant to seek help. Currently, statistics suggest that up to a quarter of those diagnosed are men. BEAT have produced guidance to encourage more men to seek help and get support.
3) ‘Recovery from an eating disorder is not possible’
Full recovery from an eating disorder with the right help and support is possible. It is important to recognise recovery may be different for each person. Empowering the individual and allowing them to set healthy goals can help promote recovery. Recovery may not be straight forward for everyone, and ups and downs can be common. It is vital that support is available along the way. Whilst you may feel frustrated with any setbacks, viewing them as learning opportunities and reminding yourself that recovery isn’t a linear process can be helpful. More information about the recovery journey can be found here.
Your role as a family member or friend in their recovery
The first step to helping someone start their recovery is to have a conversation about any concerns, and to help them get support. Whilst it may be difficult having the first conversation, it is crucial those conversations are not put off in order to prevent a delay in them getting treatment. Guidance on how to start the initial conversation can be found here.
Following the initial conversation, helping an individual book a GP appointment, and supporting them through the appointment may be helpful. Remember you are not expected to be the expert in this area and it is important to let the professionals help. Waiting lists for NHS services can be long, but there is a lot of additional support available in the interim. Information about treatment options can be found here.
Looking after yourself
It can be emotionally tiring supporting anyone with any mental health or physical health condition and therefore it is important that you look after yourself too. It is important to remember the rule of ‘putting your own oxygen mask on first!’ so you can provide the best support for those around you.
Counselling and Mental Health Service at Middlesex University
As a student at Middlesex, you are able to access support through our Counselling and Mental Health Service. We can help you understand what Mental Health support is available (both within MDX and outside) and coordinate your access to it. More information about our services can be found here.
Your role as a family member or friend in their recovery
The first step to helping someone start their recovery is to have a conversation about any concerns, and to help them get support. Whilst it may be difficult having the first conversation, it is crucial those conversations are not put off in order to prevent a delay in them getting treatment. Guidance on how to start the initial conversation can be found here.
Following the initial conversation, helping an individual book a GP appointment, and supporting them through the appointment may be helpful. Remember you are not expected to be the expert in this area and it is important to let the professionals help. Waiting lists for NHS services can be long, but there is a lot of additional support available in the interim. Information about treatment options can be found here.
Looking after yourself
It can be emotionally tiring supporting anyone with any mental health or physical health condition and therefore it is important that you look after yourself too. It is important to remember the rule of ‘putting your own oxygen mask on first!’ so you can provide the best support for those around you.
Counselling and Mental Health Service at Middlesex University
As a student at Middlesex, you are able to access support through our Counselling and Mental Health Service. We can help you understand what Mental Health support is available (both within MDX and outside) and coordinate your access to it. More information about our services can be found here.
What is Counselling & Mental Health? (CMH)
BEAT Support
BEAT the eating disorder charity provides a lot of support for carers, including helplines, support groups and information on local services available. More information can be found here.
Carers Support
As a carer for anyone with a mental or physical health condition, you are entitled to a carers assessment. Furthermore, there is a lot of support available to ensure you are equipped and supported in your caring role. Carers UK are a charity supporting carers; you can access information on support available for carers via their website www.carersuk.org or their helpline on 0808 808 7777.
Podcasts
There are many different podcasts that are available to support those with an eating disorder, or those caring for someone with an eating disorder.
Books