An eating disorder is a mental health condition where the afflicted person uses the control of food to cope with negative feelings. The types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia and binge eating disorder. Each of these conditions can become debilitating for the person affected unless they have the right care and treatment. Know more on the treatment stages of eating disorder and be efficient in managing your eating concerns.
Who is affected by eating disorders?
For Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2023, charities such as BEAT have been campaigning for better awareness. Though eating disorders are most common in teenagers, they highlight that up to 6.4% of adults also display signs of an eating disorder. 1.25 Million people in the UK were estimated to have an Eating Disorder in 2020 (a number which may have risen since). Though often associated with young girls and women, 25% of those affected were male.
Eating disorders can affect people of any age, gender or nationality. Disordered eating behaviours are something that should never be ignored.
Repeated issues with ED care
Recently, the Parliamentary and Health Serviceman warned that the NHS has “repeatedly failed” people with eating disorders. The ombudsman called to attention several recommendations laid out in an earlier report from 2017, which the NHS hasn’t met.
For example, in the 2017 report, they highlighted that adult eating disorder services should be brought on par with the eating disorder services offered to minors.
Healthcare failings can lead to further harm for people of any age with an eating disorder, including avoidable deaths. While the healthcare system slowly starts to catch up, many adults are left waiting for the therapy and support they need. For as long as the issue persists, there is likely to be an increase in the demand for medical no win no fee personal injury solicitors.
Changes Required
As Ombudsman Rob Behrens asserted, it’s time for a “culture change” in the NHS regarding how eating disorders are treated. He says they should be willing to learn from past tragedies as they look to improve.
He also calls for the government to treat eating disorders as a greater priority. More support and training could be given to the nurses who work with patients and families first-hand.
The government recently assigned £1 billion to community mental health care for adults with severe mental health problems (including eating disorders). They also designated £54 million per year for community eating disorder services for children and adolescents. The NHS must make full use of the budget, and it is to be hoped that these actions will lead to some improvement soon.
If you have been affected by any of the issues raised, you can contact BEAT at 0808 801 0677 (England), 0808 801 0432 (Scotland), 0808 801 0433 (Wales) and 0808 801 0434 (Northern Ireland).
Read Also
- Reporting a Work Injury: What Deadlines You Need to Know
After a workplace injury, time isn’t always on your side. Many employees aren’t aware that there are strict deadlines for reporting a work-related injury, and missing that window can put your entire claim at risk. Whether your injury was sudden or developed gradually over time, it’s essential to act quickly and follow the proper steps.… Read more: Reporting a Work Injury: What Deadlines You Need to Know - How All-on-4 Can Transform Your Smile (and Confidence)If you’ve been living with missing teeth, uncomfortable dentures, or declining oral health, you know how much it can affect your self-esteem. All-on-4 dental implants offer more than just a full set of teeth — they offer a renewed sense of confidence and quality of life. With a streamlined treatment process and reliable, long-term results,… Read more: How All-on-4 Can Transform Your Smile (and Confidence)
- How Medical Debt Consolidation Can Help Patients—and Practices—Achieve Financial ReliefMedical debt is a heavy financial burden that affects millions of Americans, but it hits underserved communities, like the Hispanic population, especially hard. For many Latino families, this debt creates overwhelming financial stress, making it difficult to access the medical care they need. Its impact goes beyond finances, often affecting credit scores and mental health.… Read more: How Medical Debt Consolidation Can Help Patients—and Practices—Achieve Financial Relief
- What ART Therapy Is Doing for Chronic Pain Sufferers in ArizonaChronic pain sufferers in Arizona are exploring new treatment paths as concerns about opioid dependency grow. Traditional medications often fall short, leading many to seek therapies that address not just the physical discomfort but also the emotional toll that comes with it. One approach capturing attention is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), a method designed to… Read more: What ART Therapy Is Doing for Chronic Pain Sufferers in Arizona
- Everything to Know About Alcohol Addiction Treatment in ChatsworthAt least 78% of people in the US aged 12 or older report having consumed alcohol at least once in their lifetime. Additionally, 84% of US adults aged 18 or older drink alcohol. (Source: niaaa.nih.gov) Alcohol is the most commonly used substance in the country. Yet, the fact that it is legal to drink can… Read more: Everything to Know About Alcohol Addiction Treatment in Chatsworth
- Coastal In-Home Care: Enhancing Daily Life with Beachside SupportA soft sea breeze, sunlight shimmering on the water, and the soothing sound of waves set a peaceful scene for daily life. Many people want to remain in their seaside homes as they age or recover from illness, yet still want support that respects their routines and independence. As more families search for flexible help… Read more: Coastal In-Home Care: Enhancing Daily Life with Beachside Support
