Extra services to treat eating disorders and promote wellbeing at NMHS

The North Metropolitan Eating Disorders Specialist Service (NMEDSS) has opened in Subiaco, providing evidence-based treatment options for those experiencing eating disorders.

The service provides multidisciplinary personalised care, including peer support, for people ages 16 years and older.

Eating Disorder Services Director Fiona Cartwright said the North Metropolitan Eating Disorder Specialist Service aims to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life while empowering people to build their own skills and develop a healthier sense of self.

“We aim to support people to work towards a fulfilling, valued life without an eating disorder holding them back” she said.

Psychiatrist Dr Lisa Miller said eating disorders are a complex brain illness that sit at the interface of mental and physical health.

“Early intervention is critical to improve long-term outcomes, as the physical symptoms associated with an eating disorder are also a medical risk,” she said.

Consumer Sofia said the service had helped her regain control of her life.

“You get support from all levels and attend workshops regularly, so you build relationships with other people in the group sessions – so it feels you get support on a friendly basis,” she said.

Fiona said a team of specialists support recovery, from peer support workers who may have lived experience of an eating disorder to exercise physiologist, physician, dietitians, nurses and clinical psychologist and psychiatrists all in one place to help with recovery.

The service is available to people with a diagnosed eating disorder who are experiencing difficulties making progress in outpatient treatment or who are being discharged from hospital-based treatment for their eating disorder.

The site includes the WA Eating Disorders Outreach and Consultation Service, a state-wide service providing support to clinicians from all disciplines to provide best practice treatment for eating disorders.

NMEDDS is available for people living in the North Metropolitan Health Service catchment area or in associated areas in regional Western Australia. To find out more.

View the media release here.