If you’re personally struggling with an eating disorder, it’s essential to recognise that help is available. Your General Practitioner (GP) is your primary healthcare provider and can offer invaluable support and guidance. They can conduct initial assessments, provide medical monitoring, and offer referrals to appropriate treatment services within the public and private sectors.

Additionally, consider visiting the Reach Out and Recover website. This platform features an interactive tool designed to help individuals (18+) assess the extent and impact of their symptoms. By using this tool, you can gain insight into your symptoms and receive guidance on taking the next steps towards recovery. Remember, seeking support is a proactive and empowering choice on your journey towards improved well-being.

Other helpful links:

• Inside Out Institute
• Eating Disorders Victoria

If you’re concerned about someone in your life who is displaying worrying eating symptoms, there are a number of supports available to them. Your General Practitioner (GP) is your primary healthcare provider and can offer helpful support and guidance. They can conduct initial assessments, provide medical monitoring, and offer referrals to appropriate treatment services within the public and private sectors. Websites such as Reach Out and Recover (ROAR) and Feed Your Instinct (FYI) can also provide information and interactive tools to understand eating disorder symptoms and respond accordingly.

In terms of referral pathways, there are a number of available treatment options and pathways to access care. Generally, there are two main streams of options: public and private.

Public Options

Public mental health services offer accessible and comprehensive care for individuals with eating disorders. These services are often provided through government-funded programs and are available to all Australians, regardless of financial means. Public options may include”

• Child & Youth: Child and Youth Mental Health Services (CYMHS), Infant Child and Youth Mental Health Service (ICYMHS) and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) specialise in treating young individuals with evidence-based approaches which typically include family involvement.
• Adult: Adult mental health services provide a range of treatment options, including community-based care, day programs, and inpatient services. These services are tailored to the individual’s needs and may involve multidisciplinary teams comprising psychologists, dietitians, social workers, psychiatrists, and occupational therapists.

Private Options

Private treatment can sometimes offer individuals and families greater flexibility and choice in their care. While there may be associated costs, private options provide access to skilled practitioners and facilities. Private options may include:

• Child & Youth: Private practitioners may offer specialised treatment modalities such as Family-Based Treatment (FBT), often subsidised through the Medicare Benefits Scheme, providing accessible care for children and adolescents.
• Adult: Private treatment options include community-based care, day programs, and inpatient services, with financial accessibility improved through Medicare Benefits Scheme subsidies and private health insurance. Private practitioners employ evidence-based treatment models and may offer personalised care plans tailored to the individual’s needs.

Eating Disorders Victoria and the Butterfly Foundation can assist with finding the right private practitioners who can help EDV and Butterfly Foundation.

This concern relates to situations where individuals may pose a risk of self-harm or harm to others due to their mental health condition. Recognising and addressing these risks promptly is essential for ensuring safety and providing appropriate support. Supports when your self or another person is in crisis may include the following:

• Psychiatric Triage: Psychiatric triage services specialise in evaluating and managing acute mental health crises, including situations where individuals may be at risk of self-harm or harm to others.
• Lifeline (13 11 14): Lifeline offers confidential crisis support and intervention services for individuals experiencing distress or contemplating suicide.
• Emergency Department: If you or another person cannot remain safe at home it is best to present to your local emergency department for immediate care.

Medical instability in the context of eating disorders refers to physical conditions that require urgent attention, such as severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or cardiac complications. If you notice symptoms such as fainting, rapid weight loss, or irregular heartbeats, immediate medical assessment is necessary either through your general practitioner (GP) or local emergency department.

• GP: Your general practitioner can conduct initial assessments and provide referrals to specialists for further evaluation and treatment.
• Emergency Department: For acute medical concerns or emergencies related to an eating disorder, seek immediate assistance at the nearest emergency department.

If you’re worried about body image, it’s important to recognise that support and resources are available to help navigate these concerns. Here’s what you need to know:

Understanding Body Image Concerns

Concerns about body image can manifest in various ways, including dissatisfaction with one’s appearance, preoccupation with weight or shape, and engaging in behaviours aimed at altering one’s body, such as restrictive dieting or excessive exercise. These concerns can impact mental and emotional well-being and may contribute to the development of eating disorders or other mental health conditions.

Seeking Support

A range of health professionals can help someone experiencing body image concerns. Your General Practitioner (GP) can play a pivotal role in connecting you with these professionals or specialised treatment programs, ensuring you receive the support you need. Moreover, your GP can also provide you with a mental health care plan, enabling  you to access the Medicare Benefits Scheme rebates for mental health services

If you’re not located in Victoria, we encourage you to begin your journey towards support by scheduling an appointment with your local General Practitioner (GP). Your GP can offer support and guidance towards appropriate resources or specialists. Additionally, you can access help through organisations like Butterfly Foundation, Eating Disorders Families Australia (EDFA), and ConnectED, which provide information and assistance in finding care for individuals and families impacted by eating disorders. For specific resources tailored to your state, please explore the links provided below. These links will direct you to organisations such as Inside Out for New South Wales, Eating Disorders Queensland, Canberra Health Service, South Australia Health, and Western Australia Health, offering localised support and resources to address your needs.