By Matthew McKenzie & Christine

Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026 has begun, and this year’s theme is Community a reminder that no one should face an eating disorder alone.

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect people of all ages, genders, ethnicities and body sizes. They include anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder (BED) and other specified feeding and eating disorders. Despite how common they are, stigma and misunderstanding still prevent many people from seeking help early.

Community plays a vital role in changing that.

In recognition of Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026, I have shared a video raising awareness about:

You can watch the full awareness video here:

Recovery is not something most people achieve in isolation. It happens through connection through families, friends, carers, clinicians, workplaces, schools and peer networks coming together to provide support, understanding and hope.

Supporting someone with an eating disorder can be emotionally exhausting and overwhelming. Unpaid carers, parents, partners and loved ones often carry an invisible weight. This week is also about recognising their role and ensuring they, too, have access to support and community.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please remember: help is available, and recovery is possible.

This Eating Disorders Awareness Week, let’s strengthen our communities, challenge stigma, and ensure no one struggles alone.

Beat Eating Disorders
UK’s leading eating disorder charity.
Helpline, youthline, online support groups and carer support.
📞 Helpline: 0808 801 0677
🌐 https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk

Samaritans (24/7 emotional support)
📞 116 123
🌐 https://www.samaritans.org

Carers UK
Advice, financial guidance and peer support for unpaid carers.
📞 0808 808 7777
🌐 https://www.carersuk.org

YoungMinds (for parents)
Support for parents concerned about a child or young person.
📞 0808 802 5544
🌐 https://www.youngminds.org.uk

Black Minds Matter UK
Connects Black individuals with free mental health therapy.
🌐 https://www.blackmindsmatteruk.com

BAATN (Black, African & Asian Therapy Network)
Directory of qualified therapists of Black, African, Asian and Caribbean heritage.
🌐 https://www.baatn.org.uk

Muslim Youth Helpline
Faith-sensitive support for young Muslims.
📞 0808 808 2008
🌐 https://www.myh.org.uk

Switchboard LGBT+ Helpline
Support for LGBTQ+ individuals.
📞 0300 330 0630
🌐 https://switchboard.lgbt