Breaking the Borders around Eating Disorders

Eureka Secondary School, 2017

Breaking the Borders around Eating Disorders
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CATEGORY: Make Our World Healthier Challenge (Physical Health)

The Idea

The team wanted to discard this perceived stigma and encourage open discussion on the subject of eating disorders. 

The Action

The team spread their campaign message to local media including LMFM and The Westmeath Examiner. They also produced an awareness-raising video on speaking out on eating disorders and promoted it through social media. The video received over 5,000 views in just two days, and reached a global audience, with messages of encouragement coming from as far away as Australia.

The Impact

Minister for Mental Health, Helen McEntee spoke to the team and invited them to the Dáil to discuss their project.

The team is working towards the introduction of a wellbeing programme to be used in schools to encourage students to speak out about eating disorders.

The National Parents Council Post Primary has also expressed an interest in helping the team to advance their plans to produce a resource for parents on the issue.

We wanted to change the way people address and discuss eating disorders. We’re tired of this topic being ignored. If we don’t act now, then who will?

Team Member
Award Winner
2017 Make Our World Healthier (Physical Health)
Challenge supported by
Make Our World Healthier Challenge (Physical Health)