Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW 2026)

During this week, we focus on the realities of eating disorders and the importance of early support. The campaign, led by Beat, emphasises community this year. Family, friends, and other support networks play a vital role in helping someone feel understood and never alone on their journey from seeking help to undergoing treatment and beyond.

Online, some common searches about this topic include:

• Can therapy help with emotional eating or food issues?

• Is disordered eating linked to anxiety or trauma?

• Do I need specialist eating disorder treatment or counselling?

• What are the signs and symptoms of binge eating disorders?

• What are the early signs of an eating disorder?

• Why do I feel out of control around food?

• What are the different forms of eating disorders?

• Searching for things like "eating disorder quizzes"

• Are there celebrities that have had eating disorders?

• Why do I feel guilty after eating?

• Is there a link between ADHD and eating disorders?

  
  

While this blog doesn't offer specific advice on these questions, it will explore how counselling can help. If you are having thoughts about these issues, consulting your GP or medical adviser is recommended.

Eating Disorders Are About More Than Food

Eating disorders and disordered eating patterns are rarely just about food. The honest answer is that it depends on the individual. There can be many reasons behind these struggles, but support can help uncover what underlies eating disorders. They often coexist with:

• Anxiety and chronic stress

• Depression or low mood

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Trauma responses

• Struggles with identity or control

  
  

For some, food becomes one of the few areas where they feel a sense of control. For others, eating patterns may serve as a way to manage overwhelming feelings.

The Role of Counselling

It is important to clarify: therapy is not a substitute for specialist eating disorder treatment where that is needed.

However, counselling can be very helpful for those who:

• Notice concerning patterns with food or body image

• Want to understand emotional triggers

• Struggle with shame around eating behaviours

• Feel stuck in cycles of restriction, bingeing, or guilt

• Want to build a more compassionate relationship with themselves

  
  

Therapy offers a space to slow down and make sense of patterns that may have developed over many years.

Small Steps During EDAW 2026

Eating Disorders Awareness Week is a good time to reflect on topics like:

• How do I cope when emotions feel overwhelming?

• What role does food play in my stress or comfort patterns?

• Am I being overly critical of my body or myself?

  
  

If these questions resonate, support is available. Reaching out does not mean something is “bad enough.” It simply means something inside is asking to be understood.

If you want to speak to someone or ask any questions, fill in the contact form, and we will get in touch to help.

Nutritional Therapy and Mental Health

Nutritional therapy can support mental health, wellbeing, and stress resilience. It optimises factors such as blood sugar balance, nutrient intake, gut health, and hormonal balance. You may find it helpful to explore this with a nutritional therapist such as Chloe Plummer Nutrition.

Specialist support from your GP may also be a good first step in looking for help.

Conclusion

Eating disorders can feel overwhelming, but remember, you are not alone. There are resources and support available to help you navigate these challenges. Whether through counselling, nutritional therapy, or simply reaching out to someone you trust, taking that first step can lead to a brighter future.

Use the hashtags #EatingDisordersAwarenessWeek2026 #EDAW2026 #YouAreNotAlone #BeatCommunity for more awareness and support.

More information, including a resource pack, is available on the Beat website here.