Helplines
Beat Helplines are still running daily. They are open from 12pm - 8pm on weekdays and 4pm - 8pm on weekends. These Helplines are free to call from all phones.
0808 801 0677 - Beat Adult Helpline.0808 801 0811 - Beat Studentline.0808 801 0711 - Beat Youthline.
Beat is a member of Language Line and can provide access to an interpreter for non-English speaking callers.
If you call Beat’s Helpline you will speak to a trained support worker experienced in listening and talking to people in a similar situation to you. It can be difficult to reach out for help and talk about what you are feeling, but Beat aims to provide a supportive, non-judgemental space. They can also provide you with information and explore options with you for next steps.
Email Support
Similar to the Helplines, the Beat email support lines are open at the same times and work to respond as quickly as possible to concerns and queries.
Adult email support for anyone over 18: help@beateatingdisorders.org.ukStudentline email support for all students: studentline@beateatingdisorders.org.ukYouthline email support for anyone under 18: fyp@beateatingdisorders.org.uk
One-to-one Web Chat
Beat also provides a one-to-one web chat for those who would prefer this option of seeking help. The web chat can be accessed here: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/support-services/helplines/one-to-one
Online Support Groups
Beat have online support groups which run once a week and can be found here: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/support-services/online-groups
The Sanctuary - a support group set up in response to the Coronavirus.The Aviary - a group for carers or anyone supporting someone with an eating disorder.Swan - a group supporting anyone suffering with Anorexia Nervosa.Owl - a group supporting students affected by an eating disorder.Kingfisher - a group supporting anyone suffering with Bulimia Nervosa.Nightingale - a group supporting anyone suffering with Binge Eating Disorder.
The groups Dove (over 18s support), Phoenix (under 18s support), and The Nest (daily support) have been temporarily replaced by The Sanctuary group, which runs every day at the same time as Helplines are open.
The Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is an online support group created specifically in response to the Coronavirus, social distancing, and anxieties this can cause for those who have been affected by an eating disorder. A safe space for people to share concerns and advice. Eating disorders thrive in isolation, so it’s really important to stay connected during this time.
This group is open all day during Helpline opening hours, from 12pm to 8pm Monday to Friday, and from 4pm to 8pm on Saturdays and Sundays. Here is a direct link to the support group: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/sanctuary
Downloadable Resources
Beat have lots of very useful downloadable resources on their website, which can be found here: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/support-services/downloadable-resources
These include:- A leaflet to bring to a GP appointment, with guidance for you and your GP on how to access a referral to an eating disorder specialist.
- A guide for friends and family supporting someone with an eating disorder.
- A guide for Under-18 friends and family supporting someone with an eating disorder.
- A ‘Tips’ Poster, with information about the first signs of eating disorders and how to spot them.
HelpFinder
Beat also have a HelpFinder, where you can enter your postcode and find help and support near you, which can be accessed here: https://helpfinder.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/
Shout crisis textline
Shout is a 24/7 UK crisis text service available for times when people feel they need immediate support.By texting ‘SHOUT’ to ‘85258’ a Texter will be put in touch with a trained Crisis Volunteer (CV) who will chat to them using trained techniques via text. The service is designed to help individuals to think more clearly and to take their next steps to feeling better.
Samaritans
You can call them on 116 123. Volunteer phone listeners provide emotional support for people who are in emotional distress, are struggling to cope or are at risk of suicide.
Useful Websites
https://www.annafreud.org/on-my-mind/self-care/ : This is a website with tips for young people, but equally relevant for (young) adults as well.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/podcasts-and-videos/podcasts-for-your-wellbeing : This includes some podcasts with meditations.
https://self-compassion.org/category/exercises/#exercises : This is a website about self-compassion.