Over 1,000 patients treated as Northern Trust marks 20 year milestone of Eating Disorder Service

Colleagues from the Northern Trust’s Eating Disorder Service.

For two decades, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust has quietly supported some of the most complex and misunderstood mental health conditions in our community.

Now, as it marks 20 years of its Eating Disorder Service, the Trust is calling for greater understanding to reduce stigma and help more people reach recovery sooner.

The milestone coincided with Eating Disorders Week, which ran February 23 to March 1 — a national moment to pause, learn and reflect on how eating disorders affect individuals and families across Northern Ireland.

Eating disorders do not discriminate. Individuals of all ages, genders and backgrounds are living with conditions that are often hidden from view. Many continue to work, care for others and perform at a high level while privately managing the physical and emotional toll of their illness.

Joanne Coyles, Eating Disorder Service Manager for Adults in the Northern Trust, said the anniversary is both a point of pride and reflection.

“As we mark 20 years of our service, we’re proud of the difference we have made in many lives, while recognising the far-reaching impact which eating disorders continue to have on individuals and their loved ones.”

She stressed the seriousness of these conditions and the importance of early recognition.

“Eating disorders like Anorexia Nervosa or Bulimia Nervosa are serious mental health conditions that can also lead to serious physical complications so early awareness is a vital first step. When we understand the signs and challenges of eating disorders, we can intervene earlier and support recovery more effectively.”

Over the past 15 years alone, the service has treated more than 1,000 patients — a figure that underlines both the scale of need and the importance of specialist care.

“Quite often, taking the first step towards help is the hardest but we want to take this opportunity to offer reassurance that our aim is to support people to understand their eating disorder, improve their relationship with food, and work towards recovery in a safe and supportive way. We are proud to report we have treated over 1000 patients over the last 15 years,” Joanne added.

Northern Trust CAMHS colleagues who support children and young people with eating disorders.

Carmel Milne, CAMHS service lead, highlighted the wider impact on families and carers.

“We recognise the profound impact eating disorders can have on families and carers, and so where possible we work with services users and their family together. Our multidisciplinary team offers careful collaboration of physical and psychological interventions, and our overall aim is to not only manage risk of eating disorders but encourage and support recovery.”

While symptoms vary from person to person, some common signs may include:

• An intense preoccupation with food, exercise, body size and weight

• Food rituals about how and when to eat (for example, only using a particular type of cutlery, or eating at certain times and in certain places)

• Skipping meals or eating smaller portions

• Withdrawal from friends or social activities

• Fluctuation in weight (up or down)

• Difficulty concentrating

• Sleep issues

• Feeling cold often

• Muscle weakness

• Dizziness

Joanne said community awareness can make a powerful difference.

“It is important to remember that you do not need to be an expert to help. Listening without judgement, checking in with a friend or colleague, or sharing trusted resources can be powerful first steps towards greater awareness and understanding.

“Seeking help, either for yourself or for someone you care about, is a sign of strength, and recovery is possible.”

Anyone who believes they, or someone they know, may have an eating disorder is advised to visit their GP in the first instance. A GP can carry out a thorough assessment to rule out any other medical causes and make an onward referral if required.

Confidential expert support is also available online from Bodywhys (The Eating Disorders Association of Ireland) at https://www.bodywhys.ie and from Beat Eating Disorders at https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk