When life is dominated by a fear of food and the weight and shape of your body

Your friends and family might be aware of your unusual relationship to food. But do they understand the inner turmoil that lies behind it? 

The causes of eating disorders are complex, and include genetic factors, personality traits, biological factors, social factors, interpersonal factors, significant life events and many different combinations of these. People of any age, gender, culture, ethnicity or background can be affected. Here are some of the signs of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder:

• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Distorted perception of body shape or weight
• Mood swings, depression, secrecy
• Rigid or obsessive behaviour attached to eating
• Vomiting, taking laxatives or exercising to control effects of eating
• Uncontrollable urge to eat
• Feeling out of control around food
• Feeling self conscious about eating with others
• Shame, depression or guilt after binge eating.

If you are struggling with food and experiencing some of the signs shown above, there are a few things that it is important you understand:

• It is not your fault or your family's fault.
• You might find it difficult to accept that there is something wrong, but you do need help and the best first step is to see your GP.
• You have a treatable condition and recovery is possible.

How can I help?

It is really important that you first seek help from a medical professional so that any medical problems can be treated. Your GP might refer you to the community mental health team and/or to an outpatient clinic for specialist support. If your physical health is at risk, inpatient care may be necessary. I am not a medical professional and my services must not be used as a replacement for involving the GP. However, once your GP is monitoring you, I can provide additional support.

In psychotherapy, I will help you to understand the underlying psychological causes of your eating disorder and the factors that helped it to keep hold of you. You will learn which ways of thinking are unhelpful for you in dealing with problems and situations. Then I will help you to learn healthier ways of coping and develop confidence in yourself and your ability to make positive choices. When you talk to me about your thoughts, feelings and experiences, I will listen without judging you and help you find a way to move forward that is right for you. Why wait? I'm here for you now.