Thank You Freddie (& Five Reasons To Watch His E.D Documentary)

You’re used to hearing about his heroic performances in the world of cricket, but now the nation gets to have an insight into the true reality of Freddie Flintoff’s mental health.

In a BBC documentary, screening Monday 28^th September, Freddie will talk openly about his bulimia battle.

He’ll touch on how the illness became a feature of his life, how he masked his behaviours at the peak of his sporting career, and he’ll speak to other male ‘sufferers’ about the stigma and shame associated with an eating disorder.

In the last few years, we’ve heard more ‘celebrity’ males, hint at disordered issues with eating – to varying degree – including Christopher Eccleston, Ed Sheeran, and now Freddie.

Those of us who’ve battled for so long to have society understand that this devastating illness is not limited to teenage girls, are delighted to see the discussion being aired directly by men.

Speaking out, and understanding you have a valid need for care and support, is critical to getting any of us on the road to recovery.

Here’s five reasons why this latest documentary is worth a watch:

 

1

The Myth That Eating Disorders are a Female Issue STILL Needs Challenging

At least around 25% of those suffering from an eating disorder are male. This seems to escape the attention of most people who lack education about the illness. Watching this documentary will help many gain better comprehension about the struggle knowing no gender barrier.

 

2

We Only Erode Stigma and Shame by Increasing the Narrative

Lots of sufferers talk about the stigma and shame associated with an eating disorder – perhaps more so, those with a binge and purge type of illness.

The airing of this documentary will highlight what a devastating condition it is, and why it needs more empathy among society.

 

3

Even Our Healthcare Professionals Still Need Reminding There is No ‘E.D Appearance’

All too often, even our longest standing medics are falling into the trap of identifying someone as suffering from an eating disorder on the basis of a few out-dated factors (including the BMI!).

Were Freddie to walk into a GP surgery, he wouldn’t immediately have been perceived as an eating disorder sufferer. Showing people like him in this way, is an important reminder that there is no ‘look’ to an eating disorder.

 

4

We All Need Reminding That Our Idols Struggle Too

In this Instagram obsessive world, it’s so easy for us all to get caught up in thinking that those who are successful, wealthy, attractive, can’t possibly struggle with their mental health.

This programme will further smash that myth.

 

5

Early Intervention Is Critical – So More Knowledge Helps Others Faster

It’s a known fact that eating disorders have a better chance of being turned around, if the illness is spotted early.

For every one person who watches this programme, there’s a little more chance we increase the number of people who are observing the suffering of their loved ones at an early stage – helping them get into treatment and support more swiftly.