Almost half of teachers identify students suffering an eating disorder

The sruvey found 74% of teachers saw students struggle with body image.

Almost half of teachers are aware of students in their classes who are experiencing an eating disorder, according to a survey by Bodywhys.

The eating disorders association revealed the findings of the research to coincide with the launch of a new secondary school programme, called Inside Out.

Of the 231 educators surveyed by Bodywhys:

• - 74% said they have observed students struggling with body image concerns
• - 45% are aware of students in their classes who are experiencing an eating disorder

The Inside Out programme is a two-part educational resource aimed at improving body image and social media literacy among second-level students. It has been developed in collaboration with teachers and mental health professionals, as well as young people from organisations including SpunOut, Belong To, Webwise, Comhairle na nÓg, and Bodywhys.

The programme captures stories and perspectives from young people across Ireland, which includes documentary-style video content directed by Alan Bradley, winner of the Young Director Award at Cannes 2024. Mr Bradley also directed and produced a documentary called Unspoken, about men living with eating disorders.

The aim of the programme is “to promote positive mental health, improve body image, and increase awareness of eating disorders and the supports available,” according to Bodywhys.

Youth Development Manager at Bodywhys, Fiona Flynn, said: “Negative body image is strongly linked with disordered eating behaviours and other serious mental health.

"It is widely regarded as one of the main risk factors for the development of an eating disorder.”

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Through the programme, teachers will be provided with expert-led video lessons, lived experience stories, and interactive classroom activities designed to promote open and informed discussions about body image and mental health. 

Among the topics to be covered will be understanding eating disorders, body image influences, and ways to support friends and seek help.

Research published last year by the Health Research Board found that eating disorders accounted for the highest proportion of all under-18 hospital admissions, along with depressive disorders. 

The number of admissions for eating disorders has increased by 43% in the last 5 years, from 54 in 2019 to 77 in 2023.

• Support and helplines: Bodywhys helpline: 01-2107906 Bodywhys e-mail support service: [e-mail] HSE eating disorder self-care app