Advancing Effective and Accessible Treatments for Severe and Long-Standing Eating Disorders

Panel Discussion: Advancing Effective and Accessible Treatments for Severe and Long-Standing Eating Disorders

This panel explores the urgent need for more effective and accessible treatments for individuals with severe and long-standing eating disorders. Our distinguished panelists discuss the term "severe and enduring eating disorder" and the unique barriers this population faces in accessing treatment and providers equipped to support their complex medical needs.

We also discuss the alarming findings of a recent study, which found people with severe and long-standing eating disorders were offered assisted suicide and euthanasia based on the misguided notion their condition was "terminal" and/or "irremediable."

Our panelists include:

• Dr. Agnes Ayton: A leading psychiatrist and researcher in eating disorders, and a strong proponent of preventing avoidable eating disorder deaths.

• Dr. Ali Ibrahim: An eating disorder psychiatrist working to reduce mortality and improve outcomes in eating disorders.

• Dr. Anita Federici: A clinical psychologist and leading international trainer in dialectical therapy, specializing in eating disorders.

• James Downs: A prominent advocate for mental health and eating disorder awareness, known for his compelling personal journey and impactful advocacy work.

• Dr. Lorna Collins: Advocate, campaigner, lived experience, researcher, and artist determined to open treatment possibilities for people who have eating disorders

• Chelsea Roff: Founder of Eat Breathe Thrive, Chelsea is a lived experience advocate and co-authored the recent systematic review on assisted suicide in eating disorders.