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.
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
How to Prioritise Mental Wellbeing this Summer
How to Prioritise Mental Wellbeing this Summer There’s a general idea that when the weather’s nice, people are automatically happy. But as anyone who has ever struggled with their mental health can tell you, that’s not always the case! The summer months can be just as
Back to School and Recovery
Back to School and Recovery Summer has come to an end, the nights are drawing in, and before we know it, we are all back to school... This time can be particularly difficult for those struggling with eating behaviours. The sudden change of routine and uncertainty
Can dopamine dysregulation cause eating disorders?
Can dopamine dysregulation cause eating disorders? Eating behaviour is a type of motivated behaviour directed towards the goal of acquiring energy, and varies over different contexts (Higgs et al., 2014). Disruption to eating can result in eating disorders (Weiss, 1995; Higgs et al., 2014). Eating disorders (EDs)
Eating Disorders and Body Image: Surviving the Summer Season
Eating Disorders and Body Image: Surviving the Summer Season Summer poses a lot of unnecessary triggers and stressful situations to those struggling with eating disorders. These can range from social pressures to the uncomfortable heat! So, we have compiled some tips to help you and your
Eating Disorder Charities to Unite This Summer
Eating Disorder Charities to Unite This Summer Two national eating disorder charities are to merge in July 2023, following talks with both charities’ Board of Trustees on strengthening resources and impact for anyone affected by an eating disorder. Both charities are dedicated to improving the lives
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.
Get in touch!
