Foundation supports funding for eating disorder

MEDIA RELEASE
May 7, 2009
Foundation supports funding for eating disorder treatment

The Mental Health Foundation is welcoming increased government funding for treatment of people with eating disorders.

An extra $6.5 million per year will be spent on eating disorder services, with establishment and/or expansion of residential services in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch.

“Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia are potentially life-threatening,” says Judi Clements, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation. “We are very pleased that fewer people being treated for these disorders will be taken away from their communities to facilities in Australia.”

The care needs of people experiencing eating disorders are complex, and the Foundation supports the increased funding being used to ensure that services are well integrated.

“Some people with eating disorders will exhibit patterns of risk which need to be monitored, while others will require hospitalisation,” says Judi Clements. “It is also particularly important to ensure adequate support is provided for people transitioning between inpatient and community care.”

Mortality rates for eating disorders are high, either from physical stresses such as malnutrition; or death by suicide as a result of severe depression. However, recovery is possible.

“Research has shown that people using care services value maintaining a sense of autonomy over their lives, and being treated as an individual with respect in a supportive and empathetic atmosphere,” Judi Clements concludes.

“We hope that increased government funding in this area will support and maintain these values further, for the long-term recovery of people.”

ENDS

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