I have chosen to fundraise for the charity BEAT by running the Edinburgh marathon team relay on 29th May, with three of my friends Fiona Gibson, Mikey Stuart and Jamie Torrance, because last year I was diagnosed with anorexia. 

BEAT is the UK’s Eating Disorder Charity, their mission is to end the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders. Eating Disorders Awareness Week is from 28^th of February to the 6^th of March 2022 and this year their campaign is for UK medical schools to introduce proper training on eating disorders as currently on average GPs receive less than two hours in their entire medical degree with some receiving none at all. I would  be grateful if you could please follow the link below to sign and support the campaign https://campaigning.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/page/98440/petition/1

I have experienced first hand just how much of a difference can be made by having a positive experience with a GP. I was very reluctant to seek help as I didn’t believe I was ill, however from my initial appointment and throughout the last 6 months my GP has been incredibly supportive. Had she not been so patient and understanding I would not have started to engage in treatment which would have caused me to deteriorate further. She never judged me on my extreme behaviours and despite feeling responsible that I was ‘doing this to myself’ I was repeatedly told that I didn’t choose to have anorexia. It is an illness not a choice (this is a very common misconception). Not everyone will have been as lucky as me to have experienced this type of care and help, which is why it is imperative that proper training is provided by medical schools.  

Due to how low my Body Mass Index (BMI) was I received an urgent referral to the Eating Disorders unit at the Royal Edinburgh Hospital. Unfortunately not everyone is as fortunate as me. Due to limited NHS resources many people have to wait months or longer for a referral to the eating disorders services for treatment. BEAT offers support to those sufferers waiting to start treatment. 

Before all of this I knew very little about this mental health illness. There are a lot of myths surrounding Eating Disorders. I was in complete denial for a long time (this is a symptom of anorexia) and I had no idea of the devastating impact it can have. It has caused serious consequences for both my physical and mental health, it has not only completely taken over my life but, it has also affected my family and friends as well. It is a living hell which I would not wish on anyone.

What do BEAT do?

BEAT provides support for those suffering Eating Disorders by:

They provide a free National helpline for support and information including encouraging people to get help quickly and take positive steps towards recovery.

They provide online support services including support groups.

They also support family and friends by equipping them with skills and advice to help with recovery whilst also taking care of themselves.

BEAT campaigns to increase knowledge and understanding amongst healthcare workers and to get high quality treatment in place to help sufferers beat the illness.

Around 1.25 million people in the UK suffer from an Eating Disorder. 

Eating Disorders can affect anyone of any age, race, gender, sexuality or background.

Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder, from medical complications associated with the illness as well as suicide.

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