Eating disorders: The silent burden 

I recently met an impressive young woman from Balgowlah who is passionate about delivering a message of hope to those affected by an eating disorder. Dr Jennifer Ellen Hamer last year completed her PhD in eating disorder prevention – but that’s not all.

For over 16 years, Dr. Hamer fought a relentless battle against an eating disorder, a struggle that nearly claimed her life. Today, she stands as a beacon of hope and determination, dedicating her life to preventing others from experiencing the same pain and anguish. A former elite athlete, Dr. Hamer has transformed her personal battle into a professional career focusing on raising awareness and advocating for better funding and resources for eating disorder prevention and treatment.

The statistics surrounding eating disorders in Australia are alarming. According to the “Paying the Price Report 2024,” the estimated prevalence of eating disorders stands at 1.1 billion. The impact of these disorders extends beyond the individuals suffering; it affects their loved ones and the broader community, imposing a staggering economic and social cost of $66.9 billion last year. 

Dr. Hamer believes it is a health crisis that is underfunded and overlooked and is advocating for a multifaceted approach including early intervention through programs in schools, sporting groups, workplaces, and online environments. She claims by educating these communities, we can identify at-risk individuals early and provide the necessary support to prevent the onset of eating disorders.

Dr. Hamer says for those who do develop eating disorders, access to treatment must be improved. She says, despite her progress in recovery, she was denied an eating disorder care plan because she did not meet the full criteria for eligibility. This denial placed a significant financial burden on her to receive the treatment she needed when she needed it most.

Jennifer believes that by sharing her story and advocating for better resources and support, she can help create a future where eating disorders are no longer a hidden crisis. Her work is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one person can have on a broader movement.