Scheme targets eating disorders in schools

Up to 200,000 people in Ireland suffer from an eating disorder, it was revealed today.

The majority of those began between the ages of 14 and 17, according to Bodywhys - The Eating Disorders Association of Ireland .

Minister for Children Brian Lenihan today announced a new CD-Rom entitled i-figurethat was developed by Bodywhys in an attempt to tackle the problems caused by negative self-images in schoolchildren.

It is broken into three main modules addressing linkages between food and emotions; body image and self esteem; and decoding media images.

"It is vital that more targeted prevention work is done in Ireland and the most obvious place is within the school setting" said Jennie O'Reilly, chief executive of Bodywhys. "Early intervention is the key to recovery.

"We are hoping that i-figurewill raise awareness and encourage young people to explore issues which can lead to negative body image and low self esteem. It is hoped that it will encourage young people to seek help earlier for any issues which arise for them in this area."

Ms O'Reilly said Bodywhy receives over 100 requests a year for school workshops.