THE ROLE OF SCHOOLS

Schools and youth groups are the ideal environment to begin to support students as they go through this vulnerable and daunting time of their lives. Typical onset for any eating disorder is between the ages of 12 and 16. Like any illness, the earlier we tackle the issues associated, the better and the more likely there is to be a long term success. 

While pupils at your school are on the verge of adulthood, they still have childhood feelings and experiences. At the same time they are presented with a very shallow, prescriptive definition of body image as they are influenced by music, fashion and beauty - which are also very persuasive.

When you think of the media and peer pressures that the average teenager experiences alongside this fragile definition of self esteem, it is no wonder that unhealthy behaviours around body image and beauty develop.

• Click on Information and download  WARNING SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS so you can put it on the staff notice board today.

WORKSHOPS

The Eating Disorders Network is here to help your school / youth group when addressing any issues around eating distress, body image and self esteem. By delivering workshops, teenagers can learn tools to build their self esteem.

The workshops also focus on developing skills in deconstructing media images, providing ways to express how they feel more effectively while helping students empower each other.

• Click on Information and download the  'BODYTALK' WORKSHOPS. You can also contact us to find out how the Eating Disorders Network can provide further support for your school or youth group.