Celebrities Reveal Battles With Eating Disorders In Bid To Help Support Others 

A string of celebrities have shared their experiences of living with eating disorders to bravely help raise awareness.

Actresses Jessica Impiazzi and Mikyla Dodd, and the actor Paul Cooper were among those to speak out as part of a campaign to mark Eating Disorder Awareness Week.

They are part of a cast starring in a new short film produced by author, counsellor and campaigner Lynn Crilly, which is released later this year.

Speaking on Instagram Live, about starring in A Day With An Eating Disorder, Jess, who studied performing arts at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts said: “I’ve been to theatre school and in that industry with ballerinas and such, there’s a lot of eating disorders around. I’d witnessed a lot of people that had gone through that, but also, I had a very funny relationship with food myself growing up.

“There were times where it almost took over, so for me, I could sort of see the mindset and where it can trip over.

“When you’re finding out information, you can help to look after your family members, your children, your sister; anyone that you think there’s a problem starting.

“So this film is going to help others to know what to do and where to start, and how to find the right help.”

Her comments were echoed by former Hollyoaks actress Mikyla Dodd.

She said: “I’ve got a very challenging relationship with food. It dominates my thoughts most of my waking hours and somebody in my family close to me, also has struggled with anorexia nervosa.

“It doesn’t leave people either, it’s a difficult one. Getting people when they’re younger and seeing the difference makes that really improves the trajectory to a normal, healthy life and experience with food.”

The film, a satirical look at living with disordered eating and OCD, is designed to help break the stigma of eating disorders.

“Anything that raises awareness and helps people realise they’re not alone is a big deal to me, which is why I said yes to taking part straight away,” said Mikyla.

“Nobody knows what’s going on behind somebody’s eyes and just appreciating that we’re all having our own struggles in our own way is important.

“What we need is a little bit more humility and a little bit more positivity towards each other.

“There’s not just one way to fix someone. One way will work for one person and what’s key is getting the right therapist, the right help and the right network around you.  One size doesn’t fit all.”

Paul Cooper, who has also starred in The Doom Busters and Meet The Lovegroves, said: “This film will help play a vital role in shining a light on a hugely important issue, and I’m very proud to be involved in it.”

A Day With An Eating Disorder, which is being released later this year, aims to shed light and reduce the stigma surrounding the illnesses which include anorexia nervosa, bulimia and compulsive exercising.

The project, being supported by SANE, comes 20 years after Lynn’s daughter Samantha, who also stars, was diagnosed with an eating disorder and OCD.

The film is being directed by Marvin Ambrosius, and also features Samantha’s twin-sister Charlotte.

Also starring in the film will be actresses Susannah Page and Lillie Bailey, the comedian Bobby Davro, Eastenders actor Sid Owen, Married At First Sight winner Benjamin Jardine, the actor Jordan Okai, and radio presenters Nicki Patrick and Neil Long.

Lynn, the author of Hope With Eating Disorders 2nd Edition, says the film is desperately needed to provide a voice to those suffering from eating disorders.

“I’m sad to say eating disorders have only become a bigger and more dangerous issue across society. Young people are affected the most, but eating disorders can and do impact anyone and everyone  irrespective of who you are ,” she said.

“Waiting lists in some areas for support are now dangerously long, and those living with conditions often face delays of more than a year just to be referred to a specialist.

“The impact this has on them and their families can and is devastating. I want to use this film to try and shine a light on this issue and to drive change.”

For more information visit Lynn Crilly at https://lynncrilly.com/