Parents and carers of people with eating disorders need more support

A new nation-wide survey highlights the alarming burden often faced by parents and carers of children and adolescents experiencing eating disorders.

The number of people in Australia with an eating disorder is estimated at approximately 1 million, or 4% of the population according to a Deloitte Access Economics report, with further research demonstrating a growing prevalence amongst the conditions.

Senior Research Fellow at Flinders University, Dr Simon Wilksch –  who conducted the survey says “parents are carrying a huge burden helping their child” and is calling for an urgent increase in support for parents and carers.

Image: Image courtesy of Pexles: Nathan Cowley

Produced By: Emma Wotzke

Featured In Story: Dr Simon Wilksch – Flinders University Senior Research Fellow and Clinic Director of Advanced Psychology Services , and

First aired on The Wire, Thursday 27 April 2023