Eating Disorders

Anyone can develop an eating disorder. Women aged 15-25 appear to be particularly vulnerable, but eating disorders are not confined to this age group. Men can develop eating disorders too.

Eating disorders are not really about eating; nor are they a "slimmers disease". They represent the ways that some people cope with stress, trauma, difficulties and other problems.

The two most commonly known eating disorders are anorexia nervosa and bulimia.

Where to get more information

The Eating Disorders Association has useful information here:

http://www.edauk.com/what_is_eating_disorder.htm

MIND produces a leaflet on Eating Distress here:

http://www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/Understanding/Understanding+eating+distress.htm

Sources of help

The most difficult step is the first one - recognising that there is a problem and that help is needed to overcome it. It is much easier to help somebody with an eating disorder if the problem is spotted and dealt with quickly.

Now that eating disorders are so well recognised and documented there are many sources of qualified and experienced help, as well as support and self-help available. Opinions vary about the methods of treating eating disorders. It is up to the individual to decide which help is most appropriate.