Eating Disorder Support in Coogee — Compassionate Care Close to Home
Eating disorders affect over 1 million Australians — approximately 4.5% of the population — and are among the most serious of all mental health conditions. According to the Butterfly Foundation, 1 in 10 Australians will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime, yet fewer than 1 in 3 people affected ever access treatment or support.
Eating disorders do not discriminate. While they are twice as common in women, they affect people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. In recent years, eating disorders in young Australians aged 10–19 have risen by 86%, making early identification and compassionate care more important than ever.
Eating Disorders in Australia: More Common Than You Think
Types of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders take many forms, including:
- Anorexia nervosa — severe restriction of food intake, intense fear of weight gain
- Bulimia nervosa — cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours
- Binge eating disorder (BED) — recurrent episodes of uncontrolled eating, without purging
- ARFID and OSFED — other specified or restrictive presentations
Binge eating disorder is actually the most common, affecting around 47% of people with a diagnosed eating disorder in Australia.
Warning Signs to Watch For
Eating disorders can be difficult to recognise. Some signs include preoccupation with food, weight, or body image; avoiding meals or eating in secret; rigid food rituals; frequent dieting; fatigue or dizziness; and social withdrawal. If you or someone you care about is showing these signs, speaking with a GP is a safe and confidential first step.
If you are diagnosed with an eating disorder, you may be eligible for a Medicare Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan, created by your GP. This plan can provide access to:
- Up to 40 psychological treatment sessions with a registered psychologist or mental health professional
- Up to 20 dietitian consultations — all with Medicare rebates
Our GPs in Coogee can assess your eligibility, create your plan, and coordinate your care with the right specialists.
Medicare Eating Disorder Plans — You May Be Eligible
Book an Appointment in Coogee
Recovery is possible, and early support makes a significant difference. If you are concerned about your relationship with food, eating, or body image, our GP clinic in Coogee offers confidential, non-judgmental care. Book an appointment today.
For additional support, the Butterfly Foundation runs a free national helpline: call 1800 33 4673 or visit [butterfly.org.au](https://butterfly.org.au).