Eating Disorders - Part 1

Registration is now open for The 2026 IGNITE Network of Trainees Conference taking place on Thursday 12th and Friday 13th November, at Johnstown Estate. Links:

• Programme
• Registration portal

Participants

• Dr Aoife O'Sullivan - Clinical Lead in Mental Health, Irish College of GPs

• Dr John Maher - Host

Summary

In this first episode in a two-part series, Dr John Maher is joined by Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan to discuss Eating Disorders in General Practice. Our conversation follows the recent launch of The Irish College of GPs “Eating Disorders: General Practice Update” published in December 2025 and available from this link on the College website.

This first part covers topics including:

· The emergence and influence of online communities on potentially normalising abnormal behaviours with reference to eating disorders, and more broadly;

· An approach to patients who self-present with eating disorders

· Tips on picking up clues in the consultation that might lead to undertaking an eating disorder screen;

· Morbidity and mortality data;

· the importance of early intervention;

· the importance of recognising the negative internal voice (the anorexia voice or “Ana” voice) that patients with an eating disorder can experience, and the inner conflict it can create.

Part 2 of this conversation is also available now in the show feed of your podcast player.

Links
Irish College of GPs Website
Eating Disorders: General Practice Update (Irish College of GPs, December 2025)
National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders Model of Care
Bodywhys.ie - HSE NCPED Eating Disorders App (Apple/iOS)

Bodywhys.ie – Free PiLaR Programme for Families

Irish Emergency Department Guidelines on Eating Disorders

Specialised Eating Disorder Teams

Eating Disorders Contact Teams

SCOFF Questionnaire – MDCalc.com
Overcoming Binge Eating, Dr Christopher G Fairburn

See page 7 of the Eating Disorders GPU for numerous additional resources

Disclaimer
The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does it replace independent clinical judgment or consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.

The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.

Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.

This podcast does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. Healthcare professionals should exercise their own professional judgment in evaluating and applying information to specific clinical situations. Patients or members of the public should seek advice from their own qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. It may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances to follow the advice/processes suggested in this podcast, for example due to resource availability.

While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, producers, affiliated organizations and the Irish College of GPs are not liable for any direct or indirect consequences resulting from the use of the information provided.