24/02/2026
This week is Eating Disorder Awareness Week - 23rd February to 1st March.
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions which permeate into every dimension of a person's life. They affect how someone thinks, feels, functions, and copes - impacting relationships, physical health, emotional wellbeing, identity, and everyday living.
They are not choices.
They are not phases.
And they are not always visible.
For many, eating disorders develop as a way to manage overwhelming emotions, trauma, distress, or a sense of losing control. Without support, they can become all‑consuming - but with the right help, recovery is possible.
Awareness matters because despite these clear statistics, many people still suffer in silence due to stigma, shame, or the fear of being misunderstood.
If you’re finding things difficult, please know this:
You are not alone.
You deserve support.
You deserve recovery, rehabilitation and happiness.
Your life and your story matter.
If you, or someone you know, is struggling, please contact:
Mindspace - As a mental health charity, eating disorders are included in the mental health issues which our services can provide support with:
Beat Eating Disorders Helpline – UK’s national ED charity offering free, confidential support: beateatingdisorders.org.uk
NHS 111 – Free, 24/7 urgent mental health help.
Breathing Space (Scotland) – Free support line if you need someone to talk to: breathingspace.scot
Or speak to your GP for professional guidance and local services.
