Islanders are being encouraged to wear pink and blue tomorrow as part of a fundraising day to mark Eating Disorder Awareness Week.
Local charity Jersey Eating Disorders Support is hosting its Pink and Blue Fundraising Day on Friday 28 February in a bid to raise awareness of eating disorders and highlight the support available for those suffering.
The local charity dedicated to supporting those affected by eating disorders, as well as their families and friends.
JEDS is run by people who have lived experiences of eating disorders – including mum-and-daughter duo Karen and Amy Dingle.
Amy developed an unhealthy relationship with food around the age of 17 to 18.
Since then, she has been using her personal experience to support other islanders affected – and is now Deputy CEO of JEDS.
The theme of this year’s national awareness week, run by the eating disorders charity Beat UK, is “anyone can have an eating disorder”.
JEDS aims to tackle the harmful stereotypes surrounding eating disorders, which suggests that the illness can be seen physically.
Current statistics show that fewer than 6% of people with eating disorders are medically classed as “underweight”.
Amy emphasised: “You can have an eating disorder at any weight.
“For me, it wasn’t to lose weight; it was delayed enjoyment.
“I found I got pleasure out of restricting myself from something I enjoyed.”
Her mum Karen, who is the CEO of JEDS, explained: “An eating disorder doesn’t only affect the person that’s had one.
“It affects the entire family – it’s hard to explain how much of an effect it does have on so many things.”
The charity has also been sharing resources and services available to help those affected, as well as attending schools and other events to raise awareness.
Karen emphasised the importance of seeking help, explaining: “The earlier a person with an eating disorder seeks treatment, the greater the chances of physical and emotional recovery.”
SUPPORT…
JEDS hosts an eating disorder support group meeting held on the first and third Monday of every month at the Pomme d’Or Hotel from 18:00.
The charity also offers free one-to-one counselling and peer support for those living with an eating disorder, or those supporting someone with one.
If you or someone you know requires support from JEDS, you can contact the team by email at hello@jeds.je.
CLICK HERE to find out more about the charity.
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