Men Get Eating Disorders Too, the only UK charity representing the needs of men with eating disorders is to feature on BBC One’s ‘Inside Out’ on the 8th of February in the Oxfordshire area. The feature, originally produced and aired in the South East region on the 31st of January, examines the barriers men face in seeking support, with case studies talking about their experiences of these life changing conditions.
Nicholas Watts, a Trustee of the charity and an Oxfordshire resident is hoping that the release of the programme in the area will spark conversation around the serious issue of men and eating disorders.
The programme was produced following the release of MGEDT's government petition, calling for essential changes to be made at a policy and delivery level to improve the outcomes of men who suffer from eating disorders and make accessing treatment easier for men to achieve. Due to the popularity of the feature in the south east region, it is being extended to several other regions, including the Thames Valley.
It is estimated that around 2 out of 10 suffers of eating disorders will be male, however due to limited research and the level of men thought not be accessing services this figure is thought to be inaccurate and likely much higher.
In 2011 the Royal College of General Practitioners commissioned a report showing an alarming 66% increase in the number of men hospitalised for serious eating disorders. In the same year similar reports showed shock rises in the rising cases of children suffering from the disorders.
In 2012 the Centre for Appearance Research released Figures showing a huge amount of men engage in negative dialogue and have overwhelming concerns about their body image, with many admitting excessive pre-occupation with appearance and excessive exercising.
This documentary highlights the need for better provision to be made for men who suffer from eating disorders. As an Oxfordshire resident, who previously suffered from an eating disorder I would like to see this documentary open up conversation locally around the issue. Oxford has a leading research facility and inpatient facility for people with eating disorders, yet for a lengthy period last year they were unable to admit men into their services, this alone proves that it is a conversation for the people of Oxfordshire.
Nicholas Watts, Trustee, Men Get Eating Disorders Too
‘Men Get Eating Disorders Too’ is a charitable organisation that seeks to raise awareness of eating disorders in men so men are able to recognise their symptoms and access support when they need it.
We provide essential information and advice through our website sufferers, family and carers. In addition, we provide an online space for male sufferers to share their experiences and offer/receive peer support through our online forum. Another part of our campaign is raising awareness of eating disorders through the use of media and online awareness.
To further improve the treatment men receive, we deliver training to professionals fields to help them gain a better understanding into male eating disorders and the challenges they face getting help which in turn means they can be better responsive to men’s needs by improving provision and encouraging better professional practice. We regularly attend events to raise the profile of male eating disorders amongst the wider community.
Visit our website www.mengetedstoo.co.uk
2nd February 2012
Nicholas Watts
Trustee
07538364451
Short URL: http://prst.co/2tq
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Body Image research into Men (2012) Mental Healthy
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