Welcome to our blog!
We are passionate about offering a service and community which is inclusive, empathic, understanding and non-judgmental. We believe that support should be available for all those affected by eating difficulties and disorders regardless of age, race, gender identity, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.
These principles of equality and diversity underpin our person-centred, service user led approach to mental health and a big part of the reason we decided to launch our blog space. Here you’ll find First Steps ED updates, as well as stories and features from our community. We want to give everyone an opportunity to share stories, introduce unheard voices and discuss important topics around mental health and eating disorders.
Body Image in Young People and Children
Body Image in Young People and Children What is Body Image? Body image is a combination of different thoughts and feelings that you may have about your body. It is a permanent construction that can start during childhood and may impact you throughout the rest of
Things I Wish I Knew About Therapy
Things I Wish I Knew About Therapy I perched, sweaty palms locked together on the emerald sofa wondering what on earth I was going to say. I could feel my breathing quicken and my chest tighten. One singular thought kept circulating. ‘I don’t deserve this person’s
“I’m not small enough…” – My Experience with Atypical Anorexia Nervosa
“I’m not small enough…” – My Experience with Atypical Anorexia Nervosa I’m Poppy, I’m 20 years old, and I’m a third-year veterinary medicine student who has struggled with disordered eating and exercise for my entire teenage life. A triad of causes however took this out of
The More Self-conscious, The Worse I Feel
The More Self-conscious, The Worse I Feel If you’re reading this, chances are you or someone you know has experienced being self-conscious. But how is this connected to low mood and what can we DO about it? Self-consciousness (SC) or the technical term, self focused attention,
Molly-Jane’s Story
Molly-Jane's Story Chapter 1 Ignorance isn’t always bliss – Accepting I need help On July 26th, I got to walk on stage as I was awarded the most inspiring tutor of the year. Sadly, that night I went home and continued to struggle with my
Imperfectly Perfect
Imperfectly Perfect I had always been a healthy kid until one day that changed. Someone close to me made fun of my appearance, and that is when I became more conscious. It was then my struggle began. There was a certain imaginary yet expected criteria of
Trigger or Treat: Halloween and ED Recovery
Trigger or Treat: Halloween in ED Recovery It’s the season filled with spooky decorations, dark nights, and pumpkin carving. A time when people of all ages can enjoy sweet treats and chocolatey delights. However, for individuals struggling with eating disorders, Halloween can be a challenging period
What can I talk about in therapy?
What can I talk about in therapy? Perhaps you’re interested in starting therapy but just don’t know what you’re supposed to talk about… the short answer is there are no rules about what you should or shouldn’t say in a counselling session, however, that would make
Understanding Self Harm and Suicidal Thoughts
Understanding Self Harm and Suicidal Thoughts It is not unusual for those suffering with an eating disorder or any mental illness to experience feelings and thoughts of self-harm or suicidal. These thoughts and feelings are not uncommon, and it is crucial to recognize their seriousness and
My Life with an Eating Disorder and Coping with Change
My Life with an Eating Disorder and Coping with Change I didn’t believe I had an eating disorder until I was in recovery. That is a sweeping statement to make, but looking back now, it is the complete truth. I was so unaware and uneducated about
Eating Disorders: Why Symptoms Might Worsen over Summer
Eating Disorders: Why Symptoms Might Worsen over Summer Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is often associated with cold weather and dark nights, but it’s not only winter that can cause mental well-being to take a dive. Many people with eating disorders find summer is a far scarier
Eating Disorders and Preparing for University: The Checklist
Eating Disorders and Preparing for University: The Checklist 1. Exploring campus and finding any key buildings (and the wellbeing office in case you ever need it) When you arrive at a new city, it can be overwhelming. My advice is to take a day trip to
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We are proud to support and offer a platform for individuals who are ready to share their stories and talk about their experiences of recovery. Together we can offer hope to lives affected by eating disorders. If you have something to say, a story to tell or advice to share, you are in the right place.
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