Eating Disorder Awareness Week: How eating disorders affect everyone and mental health
Date added: 23 February 2026
Last updated: 23 February 2026
Eating disorders can affect anyone, at any age, and have a profound impact on overall mental health and wellbeing.
During Eating Disorder Awareness Week 2026, our teams at the trust are encouraging everyone to join the conversation and recognise the importance of early support and integrated care.
Eating disorders are more common than you think
Eating disorders don’t just affect children or teenagers, they touch people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. They are often linked to anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges, meaning their impact extends far beyond physical health.
Supporting mental health across all ages
From Spring 2026, Kent and Medway Mental Health NHS Trust will deliver the All-Age Eating Disorder Service (AAEDS), bringing together expertise from child, adolescent, and adult mental health teams. This integrated approach will ensure that people experience consistent, personalised care, whether they are young, transitioning to adult services, or already adults.
Adult mental health teams are already involved in awareness activities and planning, helping ensure a smooth handover of the adult service pathway and supporting continuity of care.
Why awareness matters
Eating Disorder Awareness Week is about more than understanding symptoms, it’s about recognising how eating disorders affect mental health, relationships, education, and everyday life. Conversations, early recognition, and timely support save lives and improve outcomes for everyone affected.
How you can get involved
• Talk openly about eating disorders and mental health with friends, family, or colleagues
• Share information
• Learn about early signs and where to seek help in Kent and Medway
• Engage with local support services
Eating disorders impact everyone, patients, families, and communities. The trust is committed to creating a conversation that spans all ages, breaks down stigma, and ensures that support is accessible, timely, and effective.
Information, resources, and help:
- Learn more about the All-Age Eating Disorder Service (AAEDS): www.nelft.nhs.uk/services-kent-medway-eating-disorders/
- NHS resources for eating disorders: www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/eating-disorders/overview/
- Beat eating disorder charity: www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/
