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Learn about eating disorders

WHAT ARE EATING DISORDERS?

Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses affecting people of all ages, genders, ethnicities and backgrounds - anyone can develop one.

People with eating disorders use disordered eating behaviour as a way to cope with difficult situations or feelings. This behaviour can include limiting the amount of food eaten, eating very large quantities of food at once, getting rid of food eaten through unhealthy means (e.g. making themselves sick, misusing laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise), or a combination of these behaviours.

It’s important to remember that eating disorders are not all about food itself, but about feelings. The way the person treats food may make them feel more able to cope, or may make them feel in control, though they might not be aware of the purpose this behaviour is serving. An eating disorder is never the fault of the person experiencing it, and anyone who has an eating disorder deserves fast, compassionate support to help them get better.

So that healthcare professionals can choose the right kind of treatment for someone, there are a number of different eating disorders that someone can be diagnosed with. It’s possible for someone to move between diagnoses if their symptoms change – there is often a lot of overlap between different eating disorders.

Types of eating disorders

Learn more about eating disorders, including different diagnoses and how diagnosis works.

Do I have an eating disorder?

Learn about different diagnoses and what to be aware of if you think you or someone you know may have an eating disorder.

Downloads and Resources

View our resources on eating disorders.

Eating disorder myths

Eating disorders are often misunderstood. Here we address some of the misconceptions that surround these serious mental illnesses.

Eating disorders and men

Studies suggest around 25% of people with eating disorders are male. There are many men who share your experience.

Understanding "pro-eating disorder" content

Unfortunately, a lot of content online about eating disorders is not helpful for recovery. Learn more about the dangers of "pro-ana" and "pro-mia" content and some positive alternatives.

Eating disorders and autism

Learn more about how eating disorders can show up for autistic people, and how to support yourself or a loved one.

Eating disorders in the LGBTQ+ community

People in the LGBTQ+ community are disproportionately affected by eating disorders. Resources and support are available.

Eating Disorder Statistics & Research

How many people have an eating disorder in the UK?

We estimate that around 1.25 million people in the UK (1 in 50) have an eating disorder.

Eating disorder research

Learn more about existing eating disorder research findings and find out about current research studies.

Glossary of terms