1. Lesson 6: Eating disorders and self harm
Head-ED
Lesson 6: Eating disorders and self harm
Learning Objectives:
Describe the different types of eating disorder
Understand why eating disorders develop
Explain why people self harm

2. Who has an eating disorder?

3. Thanks to Chloe, Jessicaa, Selina, Izzy and Sara for this image
They all do. These sketches were made at an eating disorders therapy group
Thanks to Chloe, Jessicaa, Selina, Izzy and Sara for this image

4. Essential learning
You do not have to be thin/underweight to have a serious eating disorder
4 main groups: anorexia nervosa, bulimia, binge eating and OSFED
A mental health disorder, not an extreme diet/attention seeking
All types can be fatal
Around 10% of people with an eating disorder are male

5. Discussion point - does the media trigger eating disorders?

6. The current ‘ideal body’ in Western media
Women: very slim
Men: very muscly
How many of us actually look like this?

7. Mixed messages? Seen in a woman’s Lifestyle magazine:
2 adverts for cosmetic surgery
1 advert for a popular chocolate ice cream brand
2 adverts for slimming range foods
1 article for ‘losing the Christmas pounds’
1 article about the dangers of crash dieting
1 celebrity weight loss secrets article

8. Media literacy Who created this message? Who paid for this?
What is the purpose of this message?
Who is the target audience?
Who might benefit from this message?
Who might be harmed by this message?
What are the sources of this information?
In what ways has this image been manipulated? (e.g. lighting, makeup, camera angles, digital alterations)
Do I agree with the values represented in this message?

9. Good nutrition is important for our mental health
Do you have a healthy relationship with food?

10. Self harm

11. Why are eating disorders and self harm together in a lesson?
Many people with an eating disorder also self harm
Both are characterised by low self esteem
Both are mental health problems
Both cause harm to physical health

12. Advice for people who self harm
Keep a diary – try to identify triggers and avoid them
Find a healthy alternative coping strategy
eg exercise, writing down how you feel, drawing, listening to music, talking to friends/family
Try some mindfulness techniques to manage stress and emotions
Talk to people and tell them that you’re not coping
Childline

13. If a friend self harms and displays the following symptoms you must get urgent help (dial 999)
Feeling weak or shaky
Dizzy or light headed
Cold and clammy
Rapid, shallow breathing
Feeling confused or anxious