Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can develop from a combination of genetic, social, and emotional factors, including body image issues, low self-esteem, and societal pressures.

Symptoms

Obsessive focus on weight, body shape, or food
Extreme restriction of food intake or overeating
Physical signs like weight changes or digestive issues
Excessive exercise or purging behaviours

Coping Strategies

Healthy Habits: Focus on balanced meals rather than strict rules around food.
Self-Compassion: Practice kindness toward yourself and your body.
Seek Support: Talking openly with someone you trust can reduce feelings of isolation.

Where to Find Help

Specialist Support: Seek advice from eating disorder organisations like Beat.
Therapy: Therapists specialising in eating disorders can offer guidance and tools for recovery.
Support Groups: Connect with others going through similar experiences.

Get help

Mind UK

Mind provides advice and support to anyone experiencing mental health problems. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Services include:

Information and advice on mental health issues.
Support groups and counselling options.
Tools for managing mental health and well-being.

Visit their website: www.mind.org.uk
Or call their helpline: 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm).

Local Councils in London:

Local councils offer support services for housing, employment, and referrals:

Camden: camden.gov.uk
Islington: islington.gov.uk
Haringey: haringey.gov.uk
Barnet: barnet.gov.uk
Enfield: enfield.gov.uk

For additional help, contact your local mental health crisis line by calling 111 or visiting 111 online.

London Mental Health Trusts:

Find mental health support from NHS services across London:

Barnet, Enfield and Haringey Mental Health NHS Trust – Visit Website
Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
East London NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) – Visit Website
South West London and St George’s Mental Health NHS Trust – Visit Website
Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust – Visit Website
West London NHS Trust – Visit Website

Additional Resources:

Childline – 0800 1111 (Support for young people under 19)
Samaritans – 116 123 (24/7 emotional support)
Hopeline (Papyrus) – 0800 068 4141 (Suicide prevention helpline)
NSPCC – 0808 800 5000 (Child safety concerns)
Self Harm UK – www.selfharmuk.org (Support for self-harm)
Young Minds – www.youngminds.org.uk (Mental health support)
Kooth – www.kooth.com (Anonymous well-being support)
Papyrus – www.papyrus.org (Help for suicidal thoughts)