Eating disorders on the rise in Scotland

A city psychologist has called for improved understanding of eating disorders in support of Eating Disorders Awareness Week (Monday 21-Monday 28 February) after seeing a steady rise in Scottish sufferers.

Professor Ewan Gillon is Clinical Director of First Psychology Scotland which operates bespoke centres in Edinburgh, Glasgow and the Borders providing treatment for a range of mental health problems, including eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive or binge eating.

More men as well as women are experiencing eating disorders as they come under increasing pressure to look good, and Professor Gillon believes that an unhealthy relationship with food is becoming more prevalent in today’s society.

Professor Gillon says: “The Eating Disorders Association has estimated that at least one million people in the UK are affected by eating disorders and numbers have increased over the last few years. I think it’s really important that we raise awareness so that people understand the dangers and know which symptoms to look out for.

“Eating disorders are often triggered by a traumatic event in younger life and are ultimately linked to a lack of self-esteem. As many as one woman in 20 will have some form of eating distress in their lifetime, which puts into perspective how serious this problem really is.

"I believe the increase in figures is a combination of more people suffering from eating disorders and more being diagnosed now that we know more about the causes and treatment. It’s only through understanding the issues involved that we can take steps to improve the situation.”

The Eating Disorders Awareness Week, organised by The Eating Disorders Association (beat), encourages people to run awareness campaigns in their own areas thereby improving the support available to sufferers.  For information on how to get involved visit: b-eat.co.uk