Range of events taking place at BU to mark Eating Disorder Awareness Week
A host of events will be taking place at Bournemouth University (BU) to mark Eating Disorder Awareness Week.
The week runs from Monday 28th February to 5th March, and this year’s theme is early intervention. It aims to clear up the myths and misunderstandings surrounding eating disorders and highlight their impact on individuals, their families and carers.
BU is working with Dorset HealthCare and the Students’ Union at Bournemouth University (SUBU) to host a series of informative events throughout the week on both Talbot and Lansdowne campuses.
These range from a talk about the role that medication can play in helping to treat eating disorders, to information on diabulimia – an eating disorder where people with diabetes deliberately withhold insulin to lose weight.
Dorset HealthCare’s Eating Disorder Consultant Dr Ciaran Newell will talk about the services and support available in Dorset.
He said: “A person’s chance of overcoming an eating disorder is far greater if they can quickly get the treatment that will address the thoughts and feelings that cause it.
“It is vital that people with an eating disorder, whether it be in the early stages or beyond, are aware of the support available locally and the role their GP can play.”
Award-winning comedian Dave Chawner will explore eating disorders, mental health, and identity in his show Abnormally Normal, while a BU BSc Mental Health student will share her own experiences of overcoming an eating disorder.
Dr James Palfreman-Kay, Equality and Diversity Adviser at Bournemouth University, said: “BU has continued to work in partnership with the Trust to deliver a packed programme of events for Eating Disorder Awareness Week 2017.
“I hope the talks provide the opportunity for attendees to learn more about eating disorders and be more encouraged to talk openly about mental health issues.”
