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October 2025 Newsletter

IN THIS ISSUE...

  • Message from Megan
  • Eating Disorders and Exercise
  • Exercise bulimia vs. anorexia athletica
  • Research participation opportunity
  • A Big Thank-You to the St Andrew's Big Band!
  • Upcoming EDANZ support meetings

Tēna tātou katoa

Multiplicities – the concept that seemingly contradictory notions, ideas and perspectives can be true at the same time. This concept helps so much in life, especially when an eating disorder enters the home; it expands and challenges the unusual cognitions and allows possibilities to show up despite uncomfortable feelings or rather, with uncomfortable feelings still present. It is completely valid and acceptable to experience mixed emotions; we don’t need to dismiss one in order to welcome another. We can feel proud and anxious, grateful and be full of grief.

On a personal front, I am carrying a bag of mixed emotions as I wrote to the EDANZ Board last week to formally step down from my role as Chair and from the Board of EDANZ in order to focus on my own studies and family. As you can probably imagine, it wasn't an easy decision to make!  I am very thankful that Andrea Bonetto has agreed to step into the role. Andrea has enormous experience on the helpline, and because of this experience is well aware of what is happening in the sector throughout New Zealand. Andrea will be wonderful leading EDANZ into the next chapter.

In the meantime, our families need support, our helpline remains open, and in this month’s newsletter we will dive into the intersection between eating disorders and exercise. How much is too much? When can my loved one start again? What is Orthorexia?

Lastly, we are sharing another opportunity to contribute to further knowledge in the Eating Disorder space and partake in research through a Master’s student at Massey University.

Wishing you all well as we fully embrace spring, the season of new beginnings.

Ngā manaakitanga
Megan



5 Ways to heal your relationship with exercse

Eating Disorders and Exercise

This first article is from our colleagues across the Tasman at Eating Disorders Victoria. They have summed up the key messages on how exercise intersects with eating disorders so well.

Read Article




Exercise bulimia vs. anorexia athletica

Exercise Bulimia vs Anorexia Athletica

This next article explains the subtle differences between an illness which includes exercising as a compensatory behaviour and an illness which is characterised by disordered thoughts and behaviours primarily affecting athletes 

Read Article


Looking for research participants. Can you help?

Neurodivergence & Anorexia Research

EDANZ Support Group Meetings

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 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.

Upcoming meetings:

  • Wednesday, 5 November at 8pm
  • Wednesday, 3 December at 8pm  

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 at 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.




A BIG Thank You to a Big Band with a Big Heart!

EDANZ is deeply grateful for the continued support of the St Andrew’s Big Band in Howick. Their latest concert on Friday was another fabulous night of music and generosity — a wonderful evening that raised funds and spirits alike!

Did you know EDANZ doesn't receive any regular funding? The EDANZ team are all volunteers who generously give their time to support families and the community. 

Even a small donation from you will help us stay afloat. 

We're so grateful to those who have already helped us financially this year... and those who continue to do so on a regular basis.

Donate to EDANZ

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