Eating disorders affect more people than you might think. Right now, at least 1.25 million people in the UK are living with an eating disorder. That’s more than 1 in 50 people – but the real number could be even higher. Yet, despite how common these conditions are, they are still widely misunderstood.
Eating Disorders Awareness Week, running from Monday 24 February to Sunday 2 March 2025, is an opportunity to raise awareness, break down stigma, and ensure that people affected by eating disorders get the support they deserve.
At the Jac Lewis Foundation, we are committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing in our South West Wales community, and this week is an important reminder that no one should struggle alone.
Understanding Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or background. They are not simply about food; they are often a way of coping with difficult emotions or situations.
Disordered eating behaviours can include:
- Restricting food intake
- Eating large amounts of food in one go (binge eating)
- Purging (vomiting, excessive exercise, or misusing laxatives)
- Avoiding certain foods or food groups (such as in ARFID – Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)
It’s important to understand that eating disorders are not a choice. They are serious illnesses that require care, compassion, and professional support.
The Different Types of Eating Disorders
There are several types of eating disorders, and people may experience symptoms that change over time. Some of the most common include:
- Anorexia nervosa – characterised by severe food restriction and an intense fear of weight gain.
- Bulimia nervosa – involving cycles of binge eating followed by purging behaviours.
- Binge eating disorder (BED) – where individuals eat large quantities of food in a short period, often feeling a loss of control.
- Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) – when someone avoids certain foods due to sensory sensitivity, fear of choking, or lack of interest in eating.
- Other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED) – when symptoms don’t fit neatly into one category but are still serious and need support.
Who Can Develop an Eating Disorder?
Anyone can develop an eating disorder. While stereotypes often focus on young white women with anorexia, the reality is that eating disorders can affect people of any gender, age, ethnicity, or body type. You cannot tell if someone has an eating disorder just by looking at them.
Many people also experience a delay in diagnosis because their symptoms don’t fit society’s narrow view of what an eating disorder looks like. This is why awareness and education are so important.
Spotting the Signs
Eating disorders can be difficult to identify, as they often develop gradually. Some signs to look out for include:
- A sudden change in eating habits or food preferences
- Obsessive thoughts about food, weight, or body image
- Avoiding social situations involving food
- Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals
- Excessive exercise, even when tired or injured
- Extreme mood swings, anxiety, or depression
If you’re worried about yourself or someone else, trust your instincts. It’s always better to reach out and check in.
How to Get Support
Acknowledging that there might be a problem is a big step, and it can bring up a lot of emotions. If you’re struggling or concerned about someone else, know that you are not alone. There is support available, and recovery is possible.
- Learn more: Educate yourself about eating disorders to better understand what you or your loved one may be going through.
- Talk to someone: Opening up to a trusted friend, family member, or professional can be a vital first step.
If you need urgent support, you can contact Beat Eating Disorders (Open from 3pm–8pm, Monday to Friday):
- Call: 0808 801 0433
- Email: Waleshelp@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
- One-to-one webchat
You can also use the Beat Helpfinder, an online directory of eating disorder support services, to find support in your local area.
You Are Not Alone
Eating disorders can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. This Eating Disorders Awareness Week, let’s start conversations, offer support, and remind everyone affected that help is available.
At the Jac Lewis Foundation, we are here to listen, to care, and to support those in need. If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Let’s make this week one of awareness, compassion, and hope. Together, we can help break the stigma surrounding eating disorders and ensure that no one feels alone in their journey to recovery.