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Pringle calls for review of model of care for eating disorders
- Updated: 24th October 2024
Pringle calls for review of model of care for eating disorders
Independent TD for Donegal, Thomas Pringle, cited the significant rise in cases of young people being treated for eating disorders in Donegal, saying eating disorders require much more attention than they are being given.
Addressing the Dáil today, Deputy Pringle said: “Anyone who watched the RTÉ documentary, ‘Anorexia, My Family and Me’ will have seen 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.
“In Donegal, 17 young people in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services were being treated for eating disorders in 2020. That number rose significantly to 47 in 2021 and 41 people were being treated in June of last year.
“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 said.
The deputy raised the issue today during Questions on policy or legislation. Deputy Pringle said: “Early intervention is key in preventing people from reaching a stage of hospitalisation. Support services can oftentimes be a lifeline to those who use them. “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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