New campaign aims to encourage early help for eating disorders in Wales

A recent review found that only 32% of people with an eating disorder formally sought help. However, research has shown the earlier a person with an eating disorder can receive support and treatment, the more likely it is that they will make a full recovery. 

Eating disorders can affect anyone. Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions, where a person's eating behaviours become disordered and can impact their lives in different ways. This is often a way to cope with difficult feelings and situations.  

The longer an eating disorder occurs, the more damage it can cause. Early help can prevent serious and complex symptoms and lead to a quicker, more effective recovery. 

In a survey by Beat, the UK’s leading charity supporting people with eating disorders, 4 in 5 people believed that greater public awareness would make them feel more comfortable talking about their eating disorder – supporting the idea that this would help to challenge misconceptions that can stop people from seeking help. 

The ‘Seek Help Now’ campaign has been developed to raise awareness of eating disorders in Wales and encourage people to seek help early. It is hoped the campaign will benefit a wide range of people, including people with suspected eating disorders, people with eating disorders, families and carers, and health professionals.

Campaign promotional materials.  

Dr Chris O’Connor, Clinical Lead, Strategic Programme for Mental Health, said: “Early help and support can lead to better outcomes, faster recovery, and reduced severity of eating disorders. Recognising that there is a wealth of online information in various places which can sometimes be difficult to navigate, the Seek Help Now campaign has been designed to provide a high-level overview of eating disorder information, self-help resources and ways to access support. Together, we can improve understanding of eating disorders and create an environment where people access early help, without fear of judgement, and improving their recovery. A special thank you to everyone who has been involved in developing the campaign this far.” 

Pictured left to right:  Rhys Watkins, Programme Support Officer, and Tamsin Speight, Network Lead, Eating Disorders Network, Strategic Programme for Mental Health. 

The Seek Help Now campaign has been designed by the NHS Wales Performance and Improvement Eating Disorders Network as part of the Bevan Commission’s Exemplar Programme. The Exemplar Programme supports health and care professionals to take their prudent healthcare ideas and translate them into practice. Colleagues are supported by the Bevan Commission to develop and test their own innovative ideas over a 12-month period. The campaign was developed by a small project group including colleagues from NHS Wales Performance and Improvement, clinical and lived experience representatives and Third Sector representation. 

Find out more about eating disorders, self-help resources and support services on the website, as well as resources to help you spread the word about the Seek Help Now campaign.