Early treatment – the key to recovering from an eating disorder

EARLY treatment aids recovery from eating disorders – that’s the message from Warrington Borough Council as a special awareness week gets under way.
The council will be asking the question “Why wait?” as the campaign , led by UK charity Beat, progresses until March 4.
Aim of the campaign is to raise awareness of eating disorders and to challenge myths and misunderstandings.
Many eating disorders develop during adolescence, but it’s not unusual for people to develop eating disorders earlier or later in life.
Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, the council’s lead member for public health and wellbeing, said: “Eating disorders aren’t just faddy eating, or diets gone wrong, they’re serious mental health problems.
“Although eating disorders appear to be about food and weight, the reasons they occur are varied and complex.
“Eating disorders are treatable and recovery is possible, so if you’re struggling with problems around eating it’s important to ask for support and treatment as early as possible, as it can make a real difference and greatly increase your chances of recovery.”
Warrington and Halton Eating Disorder Service offers treatment and support for people aged 18 and over, who have moderate to severe eating disorders. Referrals can be made through GPs, or another health professional.
However, the service is happy to speak to anyone about the treatment and  support they can offer. Visit creatinghopetogether.com for more information.
Support and treatment for children and young people (aged 8 to 18) with eating disorders is available through North West Boroughs Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.
Visit nwbh.nhs.uk/childrens-eating-disorders-warrington for more information.
The Beat adult helpline is open to anyone over 18, also to parents, teachers or any concerned adults.
Details are available from 0808 801 0677 or email [email protected].
The Beat youthline is open to anyone under 18 on 0808 801 0711 or email [email protected]
Warrington’s mental health awareness site www.happyoksad.org.uk includes an online directory of local and national organisations that can offer information, support or treatment for a wide range of mental health issues, including eating disorders.