Local SNP MSP Derek Mackay is encouraging any constituents who suffer from or know someone who is suffering from an eating disorder to speak up about it. 

From 20 to 26 February, Beat, considered the UK’s leading charity supporting people affected by eating disorders, is holding Eating Disorders Awareness Week.
 
Food and eating play a very important part in our lives, however problems with food can begin when it is used to cope with those times when someone is bored, anxious, angry, lonely, ashamed or sad. Food becomes a problem when it is used to help people to cope with painful situations or feelings, or to relieve stress perhaps without them even realising it.
 
Eating disorders are typically perceived to be conditions that are suffered by only females.  However there is a UK based charity dedicated to representing and supporting the needs of men with eating disorders called ‘Men Get Eating Disorders Too’ which can be found at;  http://mengetedstoo.co.uk/
 
Commenting Mr Mackay said;
 
“This Scottish Government is actively trying to combat eating disorders and associated illnesses in the provision of centres across Scotland.
 
“More than half of the people that Beat speak to said that they did not tell anyone about their eating disorder because they did not know how to talk about it.
 
“It is important to break that silence early so that people with eating disorders can receive the treatment they need.
 
“People who feel that they may have an eating disorder should visit www.b-eat.co.uk or contact the helpline on 0845 634 1414.2