Been referred to an eating disorder clinic

[TiredTodayProbablyTiredTomorro]

Back in January I had a DWP health assessment. During the phone call I ended up opening up to the woman about my eating disorder. With my permission she filled out an unexpected findings form and sent it off to my GP. They said my GP would be in touch about it

I had to go to the GP for some bloods yesterday, they weighed and measured me and took my blood pressure. About an hour after I got home the GP rang me about the letter, asked me some questions about myself and my ED and by the end of the phone call said she would like to refer me to an ED clinic who would be in touch with me.

Does anyone know what happens now? What happens at a clinic?

I'm so surprised to have been referred. I assumed I was going to be sent for some counselling of some sort

[Star8181]

Hello, I think it’ll depend very much on your area but I can tell you my experience. I had an initial appointment / assessment within a month which was an hour talking through my main issues, my weight and height was taken and I was diagnosed with an eating disorder there and then. I also had a load of questionnaires that I had to take along to do with my mood etc. They said I was suitable for outpatients treatment and I would be assigned someone ASAP. I’ve been lucky enough to be seeing a psychologist weekly and a dietician and psychiatrist monthly. I think I’ve been very lucky though and I’m not sure if treatment is as good in all areas of the country from what I’ve read. Good luck with your appointment when you get it, I hope it helps you.

[TiredTodayProbablyTiredTomorro]

Hi,

I'm in Manchester but I've never accessed these sort of services before so I dont know the drill. I've been trying to gain weight these past few weeks and just trying to gain some control over it but I'm struggling which is why I've asked for some support

But I'm worried of my bmi is normal then theyll not be able to offer the support? Atm my bmi is 18.3 so just slightly under.

What support does a dietitian offer?

Thank you for taking the time to reply

[Star8181]

My BMI was considered normal when I first started going to the clinic and at the time I was diagnosed with EDNOS /atypical anorexia, although my weight declined a lot further after that. They were very clear that BMI wasn’t the only factor in their assessment process.

My dietician has been fabulous, no mention of meal plans or calories, just making small changes when I felt able to, all at my own pace. Anything I'm not sure of I can ask, eg. Ideas for snacks, portion sizes etc.

I know it’s scary, but you’ll be fine, just be honest with them, which I know is hard, eating disorders can make you very secretive (well for me it definitely does) Let me know how you get on.