This article first appeared in People Management on 28 May 2019.

An estimated 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder and they can have serious implications. Although eating disorders are complex and everyone’s experience will be different, employers can play an important role in opening up dialogue about them and in creating a supportive work environment for employees who are either suffering themselves or supporting a loved one.

Eating disorders are little talked about and often remain hidden. As a result, there are some common myths which can make it difficult to seek support:

  • It’s a choice, it’s just a preoccupation with body image
  • Eating disorders only affect teenage girls
  • It’s not that serious

Employers can play an important role in opening up dialogue about eating disorders and creating a supportive work environment for employees who are either suffering themselves or supporting a loved one. This could include focusing on wellbeing, ensuring that social events are not always food-oriented and ensuring lines of communication are always open for people to seek support.

To read the full article in People Management click here.

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