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.
Occupational Therapy in the Recovery of Eating Disorders
Occupational Therapy in the Recovery of Eating Disorders What is an Occupational Therapist? Occupational Therapy (OT) is a healthcare role which involves improving individuals’ ability to do everyday activities. They help people with: Disability Someone recovering from an illness or operation Mental health
My Eating Disorders and it’s Harmful Secrets
My Eating Disorder and it’s Harmful Secrets - Trigger Warning: This blog contains descriptions of thoughts and feelings around restriction and disordered eating behaviors which could potentially be triggering or distressing for some individuals.Neglecting my dietary needs replaced the neglect of the needs that I couldn’t see,
Raising Awareness of Eating Disorders/Disordered Eating in Children Through a Co-Created Storybook Approach
Raising Awareness of Eating Disorders/Disordered Eating in Children Through a Co-Created Storybook Approach The issue of eating disorders and disordered eating (ED/DE) is becoming more prevalent in younger children and prevention efforts are required in the formative years. However, existing approaches are often resource intensive, focus
Adam’s Story
Adam's Story I have recently finished 16 weeks of sessions at First Steps ED and wanted to share my experience. In the first session, I was introduced to the specialist support officer who would be dealing with me for the duration of my time with First Steps.
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
Write for us!
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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