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Understanding eating disorders: a hidden crisis
We're one week away from Eating Disorders Awareness Week (or EDAW) 2025 so we thought we'd take a look at the stats and offer some support.
EDAW runs from 24th February to 2nd March 2025, and this year's theme is "Eating disorders can affect anyone."
Eating disorders are serious and complex mental health conditions that affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Despite common misconceptions, they are not limited to a specific demographic.
In the UK alone, at least 1.25 million people are living with an eating disorder, according to Beat, the UK’s leading eating disorder charity. However, the true number may be much higher due to underdiagnosis and stigma preventing individuals from seeking help (Beat, 2025).
The reality: eating disorders do not have a “look”
One of the biggest misconceptions about eating disorders is that they only affect young, underweight women. This stereotype is harmful and can prevent people from recognising symptoms in themselves or their loved ones. Eating disorders can develop at any stage of life and affect individuals of all body sizes, ethnicities, and genders.
Key facts:
Men account for approximately 25% of individuals with eating disorders, yet they are far less likely to seek treatment.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is one of the most common eating disorders and affects people of all body types.
Older adults can also struggle with eating disorders, sometimes triggered by life transitions, grief, or underlying health conditions.
Cultural and racial biases often delay diagnosis in people of colour, who may not fit the stereotypical image of someone with an eating disorder.
The emotional toll of eating disorders
Beyond physical health complications, eating disorders take an emotional toll on both those affected and their loved ones. Feelings of guilt, shame, and isolation are common. According to Beat’s Eating Disorder Awareness Week survey (2025), 4 in 5 people affected by eating disorders believe that greater public awareness would make it easier for them to open up and seek help.
Barriers to diagnosis and treatment
Many individuals struggling with eating disorders do not seek help due to societal stigma, lack of awareness, or misconceptions about who can be affected. Common barriers include:
Fear of not being taken seriously due to weight, gender, or age.
Limited understanding among healthcare professionals, leading to misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis.
Workplace stigma—2 in 3 individuals report feeling uncomfortable discussing their eating disorder with their employer.
Cultural stigma—many people from ethnic minority backgrounds face additional barriers in accessing culturally sensitive treatment.
How to recognise the signs
Eating disorders manifest in many ways, and they are not always visible. Key warning signs include:
Preoccupation with food, calories, or dieting.
Significant changes in eating habits (e.g., restriction, bingeing, purging).
Withdrawal from social activities and increased isolation.
Drastic weight changes (although not always present).
Compulsive exercise or excessive concern about body image.
Supporting a Loved One
If you suspect a friend, family member, or colleague is struggling, offering compassionate and non-judgmental support is crucial. Ways to help include:
Listening without judgment and avoiding comments about appearance.
Encouraging professional help, such as consulting a GP or specialist.
Educating yourself about eating disorders to provide informed support.
Creating a supportive environment free from diet culture and body shaming.
Eating Disorders in the Workplace
On Tuesday, 25 February 2025, Eating Disorders Awareness Week will highlight the impact of eating disorders in professional settings. With 1 in 50 people in the UK living with an eating disorder, you likely work with someone affected by one.
Ways to foster a supportive workplace:
Encourage open conversations about mental health.
Provide training for managers to recognise signs and support employees.
Promote a culture free from diet talk and body shaming.
Ensure policies accommodate those seeking treatment or supporting a loved one with an eating disorder.
Seeking help: specialist care at Schoen Clinic
At Schoen Clinic, we provide expert-led inpatient and outpatient eating disorder treatment for children and adults. Our multidisciplinary teams offer personalised care, including psychotherapy, nutritional support, and medical management, helping individuals on their recovery journey.
Take the first step
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out today. Recovery is possible with the right support. Contact our team to learn more.
📢 Join the conversation for Eating Disorders Awareness Week by sharing this article and using the hashtags #EDAW2025 #AnyoneAnytime #EndTheStigma.
Learn more about Eating Disorders Awareness Week with help and resources from Beat.