In this issue...
- Message from the Chair
- New research on eating disorders and genetics
- We aren't talking about eating disorders in men enough
- Ed Sheeran says he isn't going to hide his eating disorder anymore
- Fading Away - Australian documentary
- Upcoming support meetings
This month’s newsletter includes a great interview with Dr Cynthia Bulik who talks about the biological causes of eating disorders. We also include a couple of articles about eating disorders in men. Lastly, we include a link to a documentary from Australia that highlights the devasting impact eating disorders have on sufferers and their families. The documentary shows that seeking treatment in Australia is as challenging as it is in New Zealand. EDANZ continues to advocate for improved services in New Zealand.
EDANZ also facilitates training for clinicians. Last month, 17 clinicians from around the country attended a day-long workshop on Temperament Based Therapy with Support (TBT-S) for Anorexia Nervosa with Dr Laura Hill. TBT-S works with the affected individuals’ core traits to shift the focus from destructive to productive behaviours. She emphasised the important role supporters play in treatment. We would like to acknowledge Nicki Wilson’s efforts in organising this successful day. We are looking forward to having Dr Hill back in New Zealand in the near future for the subsequent Level 2 training.
Lastly, I would like to acknowledge that the upcoming Easter break and school holidays can prove more challenging for those of you who are supporting people with eating disorders. The focus on food over Easter can make this period more difficult. As always, our group of volunteers are available if you need support.
Sending you good wishes and hope
Wiebke
New research on eating disorders and genetics
From RNZ
We need to understand the biological origins of anorexia, bulimia and binge eating to develop effective treatments, says psychology professor Dr Cynthia Bulik.
Listen to the interview
We aren't talking about eating disorders in men enough
Ed Sheeran says he isn't going to hide his eating disorder anymore
From Self
The singer wants to be candid about the stigma so many men with EDs face.
Read more
Fading Away – Australian documentary
From the ABC
A well-made and
sensitive insight into the human experience of eating disorders showing the
devasting impact on sufferers and those who care for them (45 mins). Please take care if
you choose to watch this. It includes footage of young people who are very
unwell with anorexia. It also contains an important message of hope. Remember,
recovery is always possible at any stage and any age.
View the documentary
Upcoming support group meetings
EDANZ believes parents/carers have unique abilities to support one another and we hold regular meetings to which you are warmly invited. Currently, we're joining together around the country once a month thanks to Zoom videoconferencing technology.
If you would like to participate in a virtual support group, please RSVP to info@ed.org.nz and we'll send you the link.
We alternate monthly between evening and daytime meetings.
Upcoming 2023 meetings:
More information can be found on our website Parent/Carer Support Groups page
Remember: EDANZ helpline is open throughout the year – please don’t hesitate to contact us info@ed.org.nz or leave a message on the phone 0800 2 EDANZ and we will get back to you as soon as we can. If you are concerned about the safety of someone, please ring 111 or go to the Emergency Department of your nearest hospital.
Did you know, we receive no regular funding?
Many families have told us they consider our support to be essential and life-saving. However, we are a volunteer organisation and rely totally on donations and grants to provide our services – many of which are currently self-funded.
Demand for our services has reached unprecedented levels, but sadly donations are down as the pandemic has hit Kiwis hard over the past two years.
If you can, please consider donating to EDANZ
Your donation will enable us to continue our work providing support to families, education to healthcare providers and the community, and advocating for improved access to evidence-based treatment for all affected New Zealanders.
Make a Donation
