Free workshop for parents to support young people with eating disorders
Parents in Norfolk and Suffolk are to be offered access to a virtual workshop in a bid to help them understand, respond to, and seek support for, eating disorders.
NSFT's Psychology in Schools and Eating Disorder Team, and not for profit organisation Wednesday’s Child will come together to present a one-off parent-focused virtual workshop, which will address common challenges, signs, and options for treatment.
The announcement comes as the UK marks Eating Disorders Awareness Week, which this year focuses on Binge Eating Disorder.
During lockdown, many young people have felt increased levels of stress and anxiety, as a result of facing extended periods of isolation, loss of routine, and uncertainty.
For some, food and a significant increase in exercise behaviours have become their means of ‘controlling’ their situation.
For parents, it has been more difficult to spot the signs of an eating disorder, or to recognise the severity.
The new workshop will be held on Thursday 25 March at 7pm.
Since December 2020 the Psychology in Schools Team (NSFT) has run a number of themed events to help parents navigate issues related to child wellbeing.
Over 1,000 parents have accessed the online events to date.
Beth Mosley, Lead Clinical Psychologist at NSFT, said: “Getting help early is crucial for young people struggling with eating disorders.
“This workshop will provide parents with easy access to experts to help them to identify the signs of an eating disorder in their children and understand where they can go to for support.”
Sarah Cross, Clinical Lead of the Eating Disorders Team for Suffolk, added: "If you've noticed a difference in the way your child or teenager approaches food and exercise and it concerns you, talk to them about what's normal and what is not - often those with eating disorders will try to convince you all is OK but trust your instincts.”
Debbie Watson, founder of Wednesday’s Child, commented: “Sadly, rates of eating disorders among young people were already on the rise prior to the pandemic, but the impact of lockdown and significantly changed social circumstances, has meant many more families are now navigating this devastating illness.
“Early intervention is vital for sustainable recovery, so the more we can educate people about what to spot and how to support a child, the better.”
Anyone wishing to book on to the parent event, can do so by going to the NSFT Facebook page – search for Norfolk and Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust