Woman tells of battle with eating disorders to encourage others to seek help

Beth McWhinnie enjoys some peace in a Reading park Credit: ITV Meridian

A young woman from Berkshire who had anorexia has spoken about her battle with the eating disorder, in the hope of persuading others to get the help they need. Beth McWhinnie, who's 20 years old, was forced to drop out of University and spent a year having treatment. But she says admitting to others that she had a problem was the biggest step and proudest moment of her life.

It's thought 1.25 million people in the UK have an eating disorder. The causes are often very complex. The University of Reading is leading research to try to better understand eating disorders, the impact on lives and how treatments can be improved.

Beth says she's rebuilt her life. She works in a Reading school and is doing an Italian GCSE and a patisserie and confectionery course. She now volunteers with a charity, supporting other people who are struggling with an eating disorder.

  • See Mary Stanley's report

If you've been affected by any of the issues in this report, there are places that you can find help and advice such as the charity Beat Eating Disorders