Eating disorders helpline extends hours to meet demand

A HELPLINE set up for people with eating disorders is extending its service in order to deal with an expected 50-60% rise in calls over Christmas and New Year.

Gerry Campion, Co-ordinator of the Marino Therapy Centre in Dublin said the season to eat, drink and be merry was a time of unbearable pain and guilt for people who suffered from anorexia or bulimia.

Mr Campion said individuals with “eating distress” dread the countdown to Christmas. Anorexics are under increased pressure to eat whilst bulimics feel there is too much in the way of exotic and luscious foods on offer.