A Sheffield charity is focusing on education in schools across the region this eating disorder awareness week.
South Yorkshire Eating Disorder Association (SYEDA) is a leading charity supporting families and individuals affected by eating disorders for over twenty years.
This annual national eating disorder awareness week has been taking place since Monday, surrounding the theme of “Anyone can be affected by an eating disorder”.
The charity has been focusing on new educational programmes through holding online webinars to educate teaching staff and pastoral teams on the effects and signs of an eating disorder.
Sophie O’ Horan, 29, marketing and communication officer for SYEDA said: “This is a first step in a long term relationship with schools. People who are growing up and going from child to adult are going to go through so many changes and it’s a time which makes them more vulnerable.
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“Schools are a breeding ground for mental health and eating disorders and educating staff on the issues gives the school the confidence on what to say or do and the correct resources to understand the situation.”
“People need to know that an eating disorder doesn’t have a look. You can have any body type, be any gender but people assume they can spot an eating disorder and know what it looks like,” Mrs O’Horan said.
South Yorkshire Eating Associates provide essential services from therapy, support groups and practical support to families and schools.
Children and young people affected by an eating disorder can become isolated with declines in their mental health, physical health and social life.
Sophie O’Horan continued: “Our mission is to provide non judgemental and empathic services free of charge. People die from these things and we want to save lives and we want people to enjoy their lives without control and to know recovery is possible.”
If you or anyone else you know is struggling with what is mentioned in this article you can find help and support here – https://www.syeda.org.uk/about-syeda