Eating Disorders
For many people - getting the right help for an eating disorder can be difficult and confusing.
It may that others don't or can't understand. It may be that you feel no-one can help you. It may be sometimes you feel that there is nothing wrong. It may be that sometimes you worry about the effect of your behaviours on others. Sometimes it may feel like there is a battle going on in your head. Perhaps you are worried that you will be told to do something you don't want to. You may feel that you shouldn't need help. If you are a man it may feel harder to feel believed.
You don't have to look like you have an eating disorder to have one.
People with eating disorders often find it very hard to get the help the need. Mainstream services can be hard to access.
Actually eating disorders are complex conditions that may feel like the solution to all of our problems and the cause of them - all at the same time.
I am not taking on any new clients. However, I am very aware of how hard it can be to find help at the moment and I hope that the links below may be of use to you.
There are many therapists who advertise themselves as being able to work with people with eating disorders. However, it can be difficult to know how many of them have specialist knowledge and expertise. Click here for helpful advice as to what to look for in a therapist.
Currently, many people are reporting that they find it difficult to get a referral to statutory services. Click here for the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for what you should be able to expect in regards to a referral. Please be aware that these are guidelines only and do not guarantee that the local services are resourced to provide the recommendations.
Further advice can be found from Beat - the country's leading charity for people with eating disorders.
Bristol has a peer support group that meets twice a month. The group is faciliated by volunteers to ensure that a safe space is provided to talk. The group is open to people with eating disorders aged 18 and over. Once a month family, friends and supporters can also attend.
Click here for more information.