There are many different kinds of eating disorder and anyone can be affected. In fact, it is estimated that around 1.25 million people are affected by an eating disorder in the UK alone.
There is no single reason why someone might develop an eating disorder, it can be the result of environmental, genetic, social or biological factors or a combination of these.
MQ is investing in research into eating disorders through University College London. Dr Clare Llewellyn and her team are looking into two factors in childhood that may be crucial in understanding the development of eating disorders – appetite and parental feeding strategies.
You can read more about this MQ funded research here.
This Eating Disorder awareness week, MQ caught up with two of our ambassadors to hear about why they feel it is so important that we learn more about these conditions.
Hope Virgo is an author and mental health campaigner, as well as a survivor of anorexia.
"With the increase in people struggling with eating disorders now, Eating Disorder Awareness Week comes at a perfect time to shine a spotlight on what is such a devastating illness. Eating disorders effect people of all different sizes and whilst you might not be able to see someone struggling, it is important to remember that individuals maybe. Having lived with anorexia for over half my life, I know only too well the struggle and toil it takes, but I also know that full recovery is possible.
With the increase in people struggling, it is crucial that research is seen as a priority. For too long, eating disorders have been side-lined in all areas and it is essential that this changes.
Let's use #EDAW as a kick start to ensuring this long-term change happens"
While the majority of people living with eating disorders are women, men make up around 25% of those diagnosed.
James Downs is a speaker and campaigner, as well as an MQ ambassador.
“Eating disorders awareness week is all about expanding our understanding of eating problems, raising the profile of eating disorders as an important subject, and challenging any stereotypes about who they might happen to.
Starting open and non-judgemental conversations about eating disorders may also help people to open up about their own experiences without stigma or shame. But we can't talk about how we understand eating disorders without also considering research.
Currently, far too little is spent on eating disorder research - they receive less than £1 research spending per person affected. This holds people back and limits our knowledge of what might help people like me to recover. Through research we can create a future where eating disorders are more detectable, treatable and preventable.”
