EXCLUSIVE: 8% increase in Scots seeking help for eating disorders

We can reveal there has been an 8% increase in the number of people seeking medical help for eating disorders in Scotland over the last five years.

We've obtained the figures through an FOI request to each of the country's NHS health boards.

It shows in 2017, the number of Scots receiving support for various eating disorders including anorexia, bullemia and binge-eating disorders, reached 502. That's compared to 434 in 2013.

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde saw the highest number of people seeking help, with NHS Lothian second.

There are a wide range of eating disorders including anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating disorder, with sufferers developing disorders at any age.

Those suffering are encouraged to seek help from their GP intially, who can then signpost them to specific services within their health board. However, many face a long waiting list in order to access treatment.

We're launching an investigation in to what it is really like to suffer from an eating disorder in Scotland and what can be done to make it easier for those needing help.

If you or anyone you know is suffering from an eating disorder you can access help and information through the charity Beat - https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/. The charity also suggests addressing concerns with your GP.