Eating problems

Learn about eating problems, including possible causes, symptoms and how to access treatment and support. Includes self-care tips for helping yourself, plus guidance for friends and family.

View this information as a PDF (new window)

Order this information as a print booklet

Useful contacts for eating problems

Mind's services

Mind's helplines provide information and support by phone and email.
Local Minds offer face-to-face services across England and Wales. These services includes talking therapies, peer support and advocacy.
Side by Side is our supportive online community for anyone experiencing a mental health problem.

Other organisations

Anorexia and Bulimia Care (ABC)

03000 11 12 13
anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk
Advice and support for anyone affected by eating problems.

Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice (AFT)

aft.org.uk
Information about family therapy, including a directory of therapists.

Beat

0808 801 0677 (adult helpline)
0808 801 0711 (youthline)
0808 801 0811 (studentline)
beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Offers information and advice on eating disorders, and runs a supportive online community. Also provides a directory of support services at HelpFinder.

British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)

babcp.com
Information about cognitive behavioural therapy and related treatments, including details of accredited therapists.

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

bacp.co.uk
Professional body for talking therapy and counselling. Provides information and a list of accredited therapists.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE)

nice.org.uk
Produces guidelines on best practice in healthcare.

Overeaters Anonymous Great Britain

oagb.org.uk
Local support groups for people with eating problems.

Papyrus HOPELINEUK

0800 068 41 41
07860 039967 (text)
[email protected]
papyrus-uk.org
Confidential support for under-35s at risk of suicide and others who are concerned about them. Open daily from 9am–midnight.

Samaritans

116 123 (freephone)
[email protected]
Chris, Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK
PO Box 90 90
Stirling FK8 2SA
samaritans.org

Samaritans are open 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk. You can visit some Samaritans branches in person. Samaritans also have a Welsh Language Line on 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day).

Student Minds

studentminds.org.uk
Mental health charity that supports students.

Tommy's

tommys.org
Information and support for people affected by stillbirth, miscarriage and premature birth.

YoungMinds

0808 802 5544 (Parents Helpline)
85258 (Crisis Messenger for young people – text the letters YM)
youngminds.org.uk
Committed to improving the mental health of babies, children and young people, including support for parents and carers.