As a specialist eating disorder clinician, I am often frustrated by the many misconceptions and misunderstandings associated with eating disorders. Not just the misconceptions about who gets an eating disorder (it's not only white, teenage girls!), but also the lack of understanding over why people might develop an eating disorder (it’s not just because they spend too much time on social media!).
Read MoreFor many people struggling with an eating disorder, negative past experiences of treatment can hugely impact their likelihood to seek treatment or support in the future. Examples of this we see frequently in our clinic are trauma, or fear related to intensive forms of treatment such as inpatient care, or anxiety related to past treatment experiences where individuals have felt judged, criticised, or misunderstood.
Read MoreIt can be overwhelming and understandably challenging as a parent or caregiver to witness a child or adolescent struggling with an eating disorder. Eating disorders impact every aspect of a young person's life, including how they see themselves and even their sense of control in a world that sometimes feels unpredictable. However, with understanding, early intervention, and a supportive environment, there is hope to find a way back to health, and yes, recovery is possible.
Read MoreBinge eating is more than simply overeating; it’s a deeply psychological and physiological experience. Intense emotions and physical cues often intertwine to trigger bingeing, making it difficult for individuals to break free from binge episodes. Understanding these triggers is a crucial step towards recovery. This blog explores the factors that may contribute to binge eating and some of the treatment options available.
Read MoreIn eating disorder recovery, a holistic approach to treatment is often recommended. At The London Centre, we believe that recovery is most effective when multiple aspects of health are addressed, including both the mind and body. This is why psychology and dietetics often work hand-in-hand in the recovery journey.
Read MoreWhat to expect and what happens to you physically in eating disorder recovery isn't often spoken about. Weight restoration is often a vital step in the recovery from an eating disorder, but it’s also one of the most challenging. Understanding what to expect can help reduce fear and anxiety around the process. Remember that recovery is a journey that requires patience, support, and professional guidance. Every step forward, no matter how small, is a step toward reaching a healthy and fulfilling life.
Read MoreBody dysmorphia and eating disorders can often be confused as being the same, however, they are two distinct conditions. While both can be deeply distressing and have a significant impact on the quality of life, they have different underlying causes and symptoms.
Read MoreSummer's arrival brings sunshine and warmth, a season for outdoor adventures and reconnecting with family and loved ones. However, for many, it can also be a time of heightened body image concerns. Social media feeds often overflow with unrealistic ideas of what a summer body should look like, and Summer's lighter clothing can also amplify self-consciousness.
Read MoreEating Disorder Psychiatry offers a specialised approach to the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of eating disorders. Specialists in this field are uniquely equipped to address the complexities of these conditions and provide comprehensive care that addresses the individual needs of each patient. Whether facing treatment resistance, medical complications, or unique presentations, seeking the expertise of an Eating Disorder Psychiatrist can be a crucial step on the journey to recovery.
Read MoreEating Disorder Awareness week 2024 runs from 26th Feb to 3rd March and this year it’s focus is on Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, otherwise know as ARFID. it affects people of all ages in different declinations as some people may have an increased sensory aversion to certain foods, others might be afraid of the adverse consequences of food intake or lack of interest for food. #wearenotbeingfussy
Read MoreIn our final blog of our mini series looking at and understanding co-occuring disorders, we take a look at the relationship between trauma and disordered eating and why processing past trauma is essential in order to live a life free of disordered eating and PTSD symptoms. With the right support, the journey towards healing is never impossible.
Read MoreIt’s hard to believe ten years has past since The London Centre for Eating Disorders and Body Image first threw open it’s doors. In this very special blog, our Founder and Clinical Director, Dr Bryony Bamford, celebrates and reflects on the past 10 years, what she has learnt personally, how far the clinic has come and the many thousands of clients who we’ve supported over this time. Thank you for being part of our journey!
Read MoreIn this blog, we focus on the intricate link between OCD and Eating Disorders: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment. Understanding how and why these disorders co-occur is crucial to achieving long lasting recovery and improved mental wellbeing.
Read MoreMany blogs at this time of year, focus on the sufferer. The London Centre wants to shine a light on all the families, carers and friends who have a loved one suffering with an Eating Disorder, both in terms of supporting their loved one, but also in terms of their own coping. The importance of caregiver and family support is gaining recognition within Eating Disorder services, however it remains an incredibly difficult road to navigate, and Christmas is by no means an exception
Read MoreEating disorders and major depressive disorder (MDD) are two mental health conditions that often co-occur and interact in complex ways. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for these disorders is crucial for providing effective care to individuals who may be struggling. In this blog, we will explore the connection between eating disorders and MDD, their common signs and symptoms, and approaches to treatment.
Read MoreGeneralised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common co-morbid condition observed in individuals with disordered eating. Understanding the signs, symptoms and treatment options is a significant step toward a holistic approach to wellness.
Read MoreIn the next series of blogs we will take a look at a number of co-morbidities including Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and PTSD, exploring the symptoms of each, how and why they may co-occur with disordered eating, and how treatment may need to be adjusted to address not only the eating disorder but the comorbidity as well.
Read MoreThis week is our final blog in our Psychotherapy mini-series, we hope you’ve found it useful! Remember to revisit these tips and tricks regularly as they are valid all year round, not just at Summer! This week we are looking at boundaries and how to navigate them in recovery…
Read MoreThis week, in our mini blog series, our Psychotherapist Lauren Aron explores the theme of shame and what you can do to help validate your emotions, foster self-compassion and overcome feelings of shame…
Read MoreWelcome back to our mini series of blogs brought to you by our Psychotherapist Lauren Aron. This week we are looking at how we can help calm ourselves in moments of anxiety...read on for techniques and strategies to help you find peace in a fast-paced world...
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