Young 'Unable to Talk' About Eating Disorders

(February 6, 2006) -- A national charity was today marking the launch of Eating Disorders Awareness Week by launching a revealing new report in London which highlights the difficulties young people have in getting their problems understood.

The Eating Disorders Association (EDA) report shows many young people affected by eating disorders are risking their lives because they feel unable to tell anyone about their problems.

Charity chiefs revealed almost two-thirds of those polled waited more than six months before seeking help and said almost half didn't feel able to talk to anyone.

The study, which is being launched in the House of Commons, also showed young people wanted to do more to help by showing more "real bodies" both in print and on television.

EDA chief executive, Susan Ringwood, said: "We are calling on parents, doctors and the media to hear what young people have to say about their experience of having an eating disorder.

"Our report states their concerns and their hopes for a world where eating disorders no longer damage promising young lives.

"45% of young people say they couldn't tell anyone about their problems and 62% waited more than 6 months before seeking help - a delay that could have cost them their lives."

The charity said eating disorders are still misunderstood and people often see them as trivial and self-inflicted instead of serious and life-threatening mental illnesses.

A total of 1.1 million people are affected by eating disorders in the UK and 20% of those who become seriously ill can die prematurely. Statistics show young people aged between 14 and 25-years-old are most at risk.

Researchers behind the "Time to tell" report polled 1,000 young people with personal experience of an eating disorder and asked who they could tell, how long it took to seek help and what change the would wish for in the world to make a difference to eating disorders.

The survey also questioned parents with 90% saying they felt confident about discussing eating disorders with their children, compared to 45% of the children who felt unable to tell anyone.

A total of 40% of parents also claimed they would recognise the early signs of an eating disorder but only 21% of children said their parents had noticed first.

Charity chiefs said they also want the Government to ensure GP training is up to date so they have the skills to make an early diagnosis and begin treatment as quickly as possible.

The biggest change called for in the poll was 42% of the young people wanting the media to show more "real bodies" compared to just 20% wanting parents understanding and doctors knowing more.

The author of the EDA report said: "Their answers were startling and we were surprised by what we learnt from them.

"We are committed to continuing this learning and to keep listening to what they want to tell us. There has been too much secrecy and silence.

"It's time to tell the truth about eating disorders. They are a serious mental illness, with serious consequences if untreated."

The Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary of State for Health, Professor Steve Webb MP, said: "It is important that people with eating disorders know where to turn for advice, feel able to ask for help and receive constructive assistance when they seek it.

"This important research indicates that eating disorder sufferers frequently do not seek or receive the quality of treatment needed to overcome their conditions.

"I know from my own constituency experience the lack of specialised help and support."

Dr Ian Gibson, Labour MP and member of the Science and Technology Commons Select Committee, said: "The political door is now open for an intense educational programme on eating disorders.

"Mental health and food are high on the political agenda."

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The Eating Disorders Association is a UK-wide charity providing information, help and support for people affected by eating disorders and, in particular, anorexia, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

More information about the work of the charity, eating disorders and Eating Disorders Awareness Week can be found on the website at www.edauk.com 

Source: The Eating Disorders Association UK

Last updated: 02/06

Related Information:

• Anorexia Nervosa - The Most Deadly Mental Illness
• Know When to Seek Help for Your Child
• Recognizing Eating Disorders in Children
• How Can I Get My Child Started in Treatment
• Where to Find Help for Your Eating Disordered Child?
• Eating Disorders Are Your Problem, Too
• Now You Can Help Your Child Overpower an Eating Disorder
• Parent-to-Parent Tips on Coping With Your Eating Disordered Child
• What is Body Image and How Do You Improve It
• How Coaches Inspire Eating Disorders - Eating Disorders Center
• Helping a Friend with an Eating Disorder - Eating Disorders Center
• Know When to Seek Help for your Child - Eating Disorders
• Teens with Eating Disorders Visit Diet Websites

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