I WAS very keen to support Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW) held recently at the Scottish Parliament by taking part in the eating disorder charity, Beat’s new campaign “Sock it to Eating Disorders”

Eating Disorders Awareness Week is an international awareness event, fighting the myths and misunderstandings that surround anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder and eating disorders not otherwise specified (or EDNOS).

On average, 149 weeks pass before those experiencing eating disorder symptoms seek help.

That is almost three years, 37 months or 1,043 days. On top of this, in a YouGov survey conducted for EDAW, more than one in three adults in the UK, who gave an answer, could not name any signs or symptoms of eating disorders.

It is well known that the sooner someone gets the treatment they need, the more likely they are to make a full and fast recovery. As well as campaigning to improve the services available, Beat recognises that we must raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of an eating disorder and encourage and empower people to take action now – no matter how long their symptoms have been present.

I am delighted to support the eating disorder charity Beat, which is seeking MSP backing for its new campaign “Sock It to Eating Disorders”.

This campaign is to raise awareness of how people are affected by an eating disorder and to support anyone with an eating disorder, no matter their diagnosis, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, age or background.

'Eating disorders are treatable for all ages' and I am very keen to ensure that this message gets out to as many people as possible.

ALEXANDER STEWART,

MSP for Mid Scotland Fife.