It is estimated that around 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder, such as anorexia and bulimia, which is more than 1 in 50 individuals being affected. Some estimate over 3 million. Exact figures are, however, remarkably difficult to ascertain as are, in many cases, identifying symptoms of specific disorders in individuals. This is not only because of mental health and eating disorder-related stigma, that which prevents individuals from opening up about their well-being, but also because symptoms are often masked or misinterpreted. This challenge, coupled with recent evidence demonstrating newly rising figures following the international health crisis, means there is a strong likelihood that the figure could be even higher.

There are a number of recognised forms that eating disorders can take, including binge eating, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Bulimia nervosa, and Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED). And, while Anorexia nervosa accounts for a relatively small number of cases (around 8%), it has the highest mortality rate of all psychiatric disorders. 

Eating disorders most typically form during adolescence and, in 2022, over 10,000 young people began treatment from the NHS for eating disorders, which was an increase of over 25% from the year before and over 30% from 2020. The average age of onset for anorexia nervosa is between 16 and 17, with bulimia being most typical between the ages of 18 and 19. Eating disorders can, however, occur at a variety of ages. 

One of the major challenges that face groups such as BEAT, who are championing Eating Disorder Awareness Week (27th February – 5th March), is misinformation. Commonly accepted myths and misconceptions not only hinder accurate diagnoses but also prevent individuals from recognising their own symptoms and speaking out. Eating disorders are, for example, most often associated with women and, yet, around a quarter of all cases occur within men. 

This pervasive misconception is at the forefront of BEAT campaign in 2023, with a focus on common phrases such as He’s just a picky eater, he loves to work out, and that’s just him. As with many mental health issues, men generally struggle with the stigma of transparency, keeping emotions and ailments to themselves for fear of being judged or alienated.

One of the most common misconceptions regarding eating disorders is that they must be visually apparent, which generally means being underweight. This is not true and the ailments and symptoms of eating disorders can affect individuals even if they appear to have ‘healthy’ body weight. This runs alongside the aforementioned stereotype that it is women, generally young girls, who are affected by eating disorders, a misconception that has become widespread.

Due to the cultural significance of diets and food trends, eating disorders are often seen as related or even a form of attention-seeking behaviour. Aside from being untrue, this perspective is incredibly damaging, especially considering the physical and mental ill-health associated with eating disorders that, as with anorexia, can be fatal. There is, however, a great deal of evidence that suggests diet culture and social media trends play significant roles in developing eating disorders.

Another harmful perception of eating disorders is that they can be remedied with food. Those affected by eating disorders will often encounter others telling them to simply eat more or eat less, without the understanding that ailments cannot be so easily remedied. In fact, due to the severity of eating disorders and the combination of physical and mental issues they trigger, recovery can necessitate a number of professional support options, from psychotherapy to medical intervention.

It is important to remember that recovery is possible. If left undiagnosed or untreated, disorders can worsen, going on to last for years. However, promising that symptoms are recognised early and support is found, there is a positive chance for recovery, with a greater likelihood occurring the earlier a disorder is recognised. As such, if you believe you might be experiencing any signs of a disorder, it is paramount that you reach out as soon as possible.

Support options across the UK are growing in number and the NHS are dedicating a larger amount of resources to the health and well-being of children in the wake of the pandemic. Alongside this, and the ongoing work of charities such as BEAT, there are therapy options like our own. 

If you’d like to speak to someone about your mental health, as well as your feelings regarding food and diet, we have a number of therapists that are trained to support those affected by eating disorders and disordered eating. To begin a conversation, simply reach out to our team by emailing hello@bristolcounsellingandpsychotherapy.co.uk.