Gloucestershire teenager running eating disorder support group
Ayla MacMahon warns holidays like Easter can be difficult for those with eating disorders.
A Gloucestershire teenager who overcame anorexia has taken over running the eating disorder support group that helped on her journey to recovery.
The 18 year old says she took over the Cirencester Eating Disorders Support Group when the previous leader was retiring because she wanted it to available to others.
Alya MacMahon warns that holidays which have a lot of focus on food like Easter can be hard to deal with for those who have eating disorders or are in recovery.
Alya told Greatest Hits Radio: “You just have to remember in a few years time, when you’re old or anything, you’re not going to remember or regret eating that chocolate
“But you will forever be grateful for joining in on a family occasion and making memories.”
Some advice she gave for over the easter period to those who are caring for loved ones included; “It can be hard for someone with an eating disorder to admit they want to join in.
“So offer some chocolate just incase.
“They may deny so don’t pressure.
“But don’t leave them out incase they hope to be asked.
“Also a massive point, don’t name foods as ‘bad foods’ or talk about diets.
“This can be extremely unhelpful to hear and could even trigger the start of disordered thoughts in younger people.”
If you, or someone you know, is having a problem with an eating disorder, there’s help available from BEAT Eating Disorders - www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk
Or you can call them on these numbers:
• England - 0808 801 0677
• Scotland - 0808 801 0432
• Wales - 0808 801 0433
• Northern Ireland - 0808 801 0434