DEMAND for help to battle a debilitating eating disorder has led to the formation of a new program to bring Bunbury women together in recovery.
A group workshop series will be held in the CBD to help people struggling with binge eating and purging symptoms.
In June 2011, St John of God Bunbury Hospital introduced an eating disorder program to fill gaps in education and support across the city.
Carmen Thomson stepped into the role of coordinator and she has liaised with health care professionals across Bunbury.
Ms Thomson contacted New Growth Psychological Services psychologist Emma Watson after she had requests from local women for a group workshop.
Ms Watson, a registered psychologist with more than 10 years experience, agreed to hold the workshops in her Marlston Hill office.
She said local women were looking for help but a lack of services often meant they lived with the disorder for many years.
“While eating disorders have always been a problem, there are definitely increased pressures on women to look a certain way these days, which can lead to eating disorders, anxiety and depression,” Ms Watson said.
She said the workshops would help participants to improve self image, manage stress and understand their thoughts and feelings.
When enough people have registered interest, the workshops will run on a Thursday from 4pm to 5.30pm.
For more information contact 0429 883 984.
