Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect millions of people, yet they often go unnoticed or misunderstood. This week, as we mark Eating Disorder Awareness Week 2025 (EDAW 2025), I want to take a moment to shed light on this important topic and why awareness matters.

Each year, BEAT, the UK’s leading eating disorder charity, chooses a theme to guide awareness efforts. This year’s theme, “Anyone Can Be Affected by an Eating Disorder,” is a powerful reminder that these conditions do not discriminate. Despite common misconceptions, eating disorders can affect individuals of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses. The impact isn’t just limited to those experiencing the disorder firsthand; families, friends, and caregivers also navigate the challenges that come with supporting a loved one.

Over the course of this week, I’ll be exploring different aspects of eating disorders, including lived experiences, misconceptions, and ways to offer support. But first, let’s start with some key information.

What are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterised by complex relationships with food, body image, and emotions. They go far beyond dieting or personal choice; they can significantly impact a person’s physical and emotional wellbeing. The most commonly recognised eating disorders include:

• Anorexia Nervosa – Often associated with restrictive eating and intense fear of weight gain.
• Bulimia Nervosa – Characterised by cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours, such as purging.
• Binge-Eating Disorder (BED) – Involves recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often accompanied by distress.
• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) – A condition where individuals avoid certain foods due to sensory sensitivities, fear of choking, or lack of interest in eating, rather than concerns about weight.

While these are some of the most commonly discussed, many other forms of disordered eating exist, and there is more to each eating disorder than these short descriptions above. Research continues to uncover new patterns and experiences that don’t always fit into traditional definitions.

What causes eating disorders?

There isn’t one single cause of an eating disorder. Instead, they develop from a complex interplay of genetic, psychological, social, and environmental factors. Some contributing factors include:

• Low self-esteem or perfectionism
• Trauma or stressful life events
• Societal pressures and diet culture
• Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression
• A need for control in uncertain situations

The COVID-19 pandemic also saw a notable increase in eating disorder diagnoses, highlighting how external stressors can act as a catalyst. While ongoing research is exploring the long-term impact of global events on eating behaviours, what’s clear is that eating disorders are rarely just about food. They are deeply connected to emotions and coping mechanisms.

Are eating disorders just about food?

No, and this is one of the biggest misconceptions. While food is often the visible aspect of an eating disorder, the underlying struggles are far more complex. Many individuals use disordered eating behaviours as a way to navigate feelings of distress, trauma, or a perceived loss of control. Recovery, therefore, isn’t just about eating more or less: it’s about addressing the deeper emotional and psychological roots of the disorder.

Can someone recover from an eating disorder?

Absolutely. Recovery is possible, though it looks different for everyone. It’s not always a straightforward journey, and it often involves setbacks. However, with the right support – whether through therapy, medical treatment, or a strong support network – many people do rebuild a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.

Research suggests that full recovery can take several years, on average, around eight years, but early intervention significantly improves outcomes. The sooner someone receives help, the better their chances of recovery. That’s why awareness, education, and open conversations are so important.

Looking Ahead

Throughout EDAW 2025, I’ll be sharing more insights on eating disorders, tackling common myths, and discussing ways we can collectively create a more supportive, stigma-free environment. I’m staying away from sharing personal anecdotes this year, as you might be aware that I’m struggling at the moment, so please see these posts as educational content only. Whether you’ve been personally affected or are looking to educate yourself, I hope this week’s content offers something valuable.

If you or someone you know is struggling, you’re not alone, and help is available. Organisations like BEAT provide guidance, support, and resources to those affected by eating disorders and their loved ones.

Let’s keep this conversation going 💜