by Michael Lockhart
THE number of people in Donegal being treated for an eating disorder has risen.
In Donegal, 17 young people in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services were treated for eating disorders in 2020.
That number more than doubled to 47 in 2021. As of June of last year, 41 people were being treated.
Commentng on the figures, Independent TD for Donegal, Thomas Pringle called for more attenton and greater urgency to be given to the mental health condition.
Addressing the Dáil, Deputy Pringle said the RTÉ documentary, ‘Anorexia, My Family and Me’ shed light on the devastating impact of eating disorders.
“There has been a terrifying rise in eating disorders in this country and it requires a lot more attention than it is currently being given.
“This number only reflects those that come forward with their illness and actually manage to get a referral. There are many more who are unable to get as far as receiving treatment.
“Minister Butler has said that the number of people suffering from eating disorders has soared from 60 to 500 in recent years, so why are we so slow to act and get people the treatment they need?”, he questioned.
The deputy raised the issue during Questions on policy or legislation, stressing that early intervention is “key in preventing people from reaching a stage of hospitalisation”.
He said: “We are in desperate need of a review of the model of care for eating disorders, Minister. So when do you plan on delivering this?”
In his response, Minister Darragh O’Brien outlined funding announced for the eating disorders programme this year and in Budget 2025.
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