Media Guidelines

Eating disorders – anorexia, bulimia and binge eating – are frequent topics of media interest, yet this is a difficult and challenging area.

Journalists and broadcasters want to produce articles and programmes that are in the public interest, but with the responsibility not to either glamorise or trivialise the subject.

Eating disorders can be deadly – and claim many young lives, often from suicide which brings additional sensitivities to any reporting.

The media doesn’t cause eating disorders, but the media can strongly influence attitudes, beliefs and actions.

Reporting eating disorders honestly, truthfully and with compassion for those affected makes a tremendous difference. It helps overcome the stigma and shame many people feel – making it easier for them to accept the treatment and support they need to beat an eating disorder.

Please download the Beat Media Guidelines here, and we are happy to discuss how we can help you to implement them in your reporting of eating disorders.