University Freshers Fairs and STV News Appearance

Starting University is an interesting time, filled with apprehension and excitement. I remember when I started University (with my secret eating disorder), I hoped that I’d ‘get over it’ myself with the new change of scene. Unfortunately, I continued to struggle, just in a different environment.

The thing is, seasons of change can be very difficult for people struggling with disordered eating, and University life can also contribute to the onset of an eating disorder.

This isn’t surprising when there are so many ‘new’ moments. We often live by ourselves, or with unfamiliar people. We come across new foods. We are fed by unfamiliar people/places and/or we cook for ourselves. Our movement behaviours change. We are confronted with new ideas or beliefs that may seem very foreign to us. They may seem captivating too. We are meeting new people and learning new things daily, without the security net of family close by.

It was for this reason that I attended the two “Freshers Fayres” (Orientation days) for the two universities closest to where I live - Robert Gordon’s University and University of Aberdeen, both in Aberdeen, Scotland. I wanted people to know that Recovery Coaching was available to them, eating disorder diagnosis or not. I was really impressed at how many students came up to the stall to ask questions about themselves or their loved ones. At how many people were willing to share their own story of eating disorder recovery. It’s made me appreciate how much more open we are as a society, when it comes to mental health and self awareness. Saying that, there is still a lot of work to be done and a stigma around eating disorders.

I’m delighted that STV News did a piece around my coaching service. Check out the full video here.