BODYWHYS, an organisation for people with anorexia and bulimia nervosa, has set up a helpline for people with eating disorders. The organisation estimates there are at least 9,000 Irish people, mostly women between the ages of 14 and 20, with such problems.
The line will be staffed by trained volunteers.
According to Ms Jennifer Kelly, the Bodywhys secretary, the figure of 9,000 is a conservative estimate, and people in other age groups also suffer.
"There are no official figures for Ireland, but according to estimates, about 1 per cent of the female population has anorexia and up to 5 per cent have bulimia. Yesterday was the first day of the helpline and we have been inundated," said Ms Kelly.
Bulimia is much more prevalent than anorexia, she explained. "Anorexia is characterised by an unrelenting drive for thinness through self-starvation, and the sighs are visible.
"Bulimia is characterised by binge-eating followed by purging either by vomiting, or using laxatives or diuretics. It is much more hidden, as people have a normal or above-normal body weight and to be coping with their lives. Ms Kelly believes the problem is on the increase. "The feedback we are getting from schools and other places is that there is a big problem," she said.
Eating disorders, she said, are associated with low self-esteem and other related psychological problems. "For successful treatment you have to address those psychological problems."
A large number of calls yesterday were from people with a variety of problems, including those with eating disorders or relatives wanting to know how they can help sufferers.
"The helpline caters for anyone who wants to talk about any aspect of an eating disorder. We want to offer information, understanding and support and to see what the next step is. People with eating disorders can recover, but they need information and support. We know how lost they can feel and we are here to support them and to put them in contact with people who understand their situation. This helpline can be a lifeline for them."
Bodywhys support groups operate in Ennis and Dublin, and other groups are currently being formed. The helpline will operate on Tuesday from 12.30 p.m. to 2.30 p.m., Wednesday from 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m., and Thursday from 10 am. to 12 pm. The telephone number is (01) 283-5126.