Our blog.
Authenticity is a core part of Orri’s philosophy. Our blog is a place to share news and updates on Orri, but most importantly, discuss important topics in relation to eating disorders and recovery.
May’s theme: Reconnecting in eating disorder recovery
A guided meditation for exam season, by Orri’s Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist
A guided meditation, led by Orri's Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist, Pippa. Specifically for students in the midst of exam season, though anyone who would benefit from a pause or a break is welcome to listen.
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Orri’s Dietetics team answer your food recovery questions
Did you have a food recovery question for our specialist Dietetics team? We may have answered it in our latest blog.
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Orri’s Director of Research & Development, Dr Paul Robinson, is Clinical Advisor to the newly launched MEED guidance for recognising and managing medical emergencies in eating disorders.
The new MEED guidance is a welcome commitment to preventing deaths from eating disorders and ensuring that recovery becomes possible for all.
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Feeling lonely? Here’s what you can do to feel connected.
This years’ Mental Health Awareness Week is looking at loneliness – something pertinent to the experience of living with an eating disorder. We’re joining the UK’s biggest conversation on mental health to ensure no one feels alone in their experience of their illness.
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A note to lonely you, a poem by our client
Inspired by this year's Mental Health Awareness Week, a previous client has written a poem about loneliness and shares her hope for those in eating disorder recovery.
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4 things to hold onto during the exam period
If you are in the midst of exam preparation and revising, you more than anyone can understand the pressure that can be felt at this time. These periods of heightened stress can intensify eating disorder thoughts or behaviours, which can affect the progress you have made in your recovery.
In effort to prepare for moments where your eating disorder voice may seem loud, here are 4 things to keep in mind...
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Meet the Eating Disorder Associate: Layla
Layla is a new member of Orri’s Eating Disorder Associates (EDAs) team. She supports clients and the clinicians in her day-to-day, for the in person programme. Read our blog on what brought her to work in eating disorders and how she is finding the role so far.
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Change the Story, with Hope Virgo: the intentions behind the campaign – Guest Blogger
Hope Virgo, multi award-winning mental health campaigner and expert by experience in eating disorders, is our latest Guest Blogger.
In this blog, she shares her intentions and her 'hope' for the #ChangeTheStory campaign, and discusses what she believes need to change in eating disorder treatment.
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Orri and Wednesday’s Child, for Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week – Guest Blogger
For this year's Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, we’d like to draw attention to the experience of having an eating disorder whilst being pregnant or having just given birth, and the unique complexities associated with this stage of life.
In effort to widen this non-judgemental, accepting space in which some of the more unspoken aspects of motherhood can be shared and considered, Orri spoke with Wednesday Child's Perinatal Lead, Abigail Reynolds.
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A mother shares what she has learnt throughout her recovery – Guest Blogger
An Orri Alumni client shares her honest experience of navigating her eating disorder recovery alongside being a mother.
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Orri’s Dietetics Team answer your latest questions about food
Every Friday since the beginning of 2022, we have asked our Orri Instagram community for their food and recovery questions, to put forward to our specialist dietetics team.
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How to cope when dining out, with calories labelled on menus
Following last week’s launch of the government’s new legislation to include calorie labelling on menus, we recognise that eating out may come with new anxieties and fears. Will I enjoy eating out in public again? Will I choose what I want to eat or what is the least amount in calories now? Eating out should be fun and this makes it scary and triggering. If these thoughts resonate with you, know that we get it and understand.
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Coping with Easter, with an eating disorder
The Easter holiday is an opportunity to celebrate the changing of seasons and take the long bank holiday weekend to reconnect with our loved ones. But for those living with an eating disorder, Easter can represent multiple challenges. Here are our tips for the Easter weekend.
Today we’re taking a look at those challenges and sharing our tips for ensuring an eating disorder doesn’t hold you back from enjoying the holiday.
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It’s not a relapse, it’s a lapse. How you can get back on track with your eating disorder recovery.
If you are reading this blog in the midst of a relapse, know that your experience is completely valid and that relapse in eating disorder recovery is very normal.
Below, we offer ways on how you can be kind to yourself during these moments, and still honour your recovery.
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The Girl Who Decided to Go For It – Guest Blogger
Our latest Guest Blogger, Alice, shares her experience of being stuck with her eating disorder, but finding a way to let go and let more of life in.
We hope her honesty, openness and creativity will touch those of you who are in a similar place and need these words of encouragement.
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Our CEO’s thoughts on the government’s calorie labelling on menus
We are deeply concerned and disappointed about the government initiative to include calorie labelling on menus, which takes effect from today.
Our CEO and Founder, Kerrie, shares her thoughts on this new legislation.
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Autism and eating disorders, with Dr Sara Morando
Our Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr Sara Morando, is trained in autism assessment and is a specialist on how ASD can occur alongside eating disorders.
For World Autism Day, we sat her down to learn more about the overlap.
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Relapse in eating disorder recovery, with Orri’s Lead Psychological Therapist
Experiencing a relapse can knock your confidence in eating disorder recovery, but it doesn’t have to undo any of the hard work you’ve already done and the progress you’ve made.
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5 things to keep in mind about stress, for Stress Awareness Month
In our hyper-connected, fast-paced lives - and after two years of a pandemic infused with uncertainty - you’d be forgiven for perceiving stress as a staple of day-to-day life. Stress Awareness Month aims to raise awareness of the causes and cures for our modern stress epidemic. Here are 5 things to keep in mind about stress.
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More of your food recovery questions, answered by our Dietetics team
Each week, we ask our Orri Instagram community for their food and recovery questions to put to our specialist dietetics team. Here are their latest answers.
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“I never dreamt I’d be mum to a daughter with an eating disorder,” – a blog for Mother’s Day
A mother shares her journey caring for her daughter and her eating disorder. We are keeping all mothers, parents and carers in our hearts this Mothering Sunday. We hope you find some comfort and hope in reading these words.
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Meet the Eating Disorder Associate: Sam
Sam joined our team of Eating Disorder Associates 8 months ago and brings with him a passion for advocating for men to access eating disorder treatment. We sat him down to learn more about what drives him in his role here at Orri.
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Meet the Eating Disorder Associate: Nia
Nia has been working at Orri for 6 months, bringing passion to her role as an Eating Disorder Associate. We sat her down to find out more about the day in the life of an EDA, her psychology studies and love of cold water swimming!
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Meet the Lead Eating Disorder Associate: Isobel
Isobel is Orri's Lead Eating Disorder Associate. She manages her team of passionate EDA's, who come alongside our clients during their days in treatment at Orri. Working in the eating disorder sector is rewarding and challenging at times. Here, Isobel talks us through her role and what led her here.
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Introducing Orri’s Portion Clinic, to aid eating disorder recovery
We understand how confusing and frightening portioning can be in recovery, and how the eating disorder distorts are understanding of what a 'normal' portion is.
That is why Zuzanna, Dietetic Assistant, has set up a Portion Clinic for our clients at Orri - to offer non-judgemental guidance and support. We share the latest below.
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A recap of Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2022
Last week was Eating Disorders Awareness Week - a big week for all of us in the sector who are passionate about changing the way we approach eating disorder treatment and recovery.
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An ode to growth – a poem by our Eating Disorder Associate
Nia is an Eating Disorder Associate at Orri (and our resident poet!). To inspire you in recovery today, she has written a poem on the experience of growth in life and eating disorder recovery.
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Nutrition and Hydration Week, with Orri’s Dietetics Team
It’s Nutrition and Hydration Week! Adequate nutrition is central to eating disorder recovery, and therefore an important part of Orri. In this blog, our Dietetics team share how we apply this focus and care into treatment.
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Orri’s Kitchen: Spanish Tomato Rice and Vegetable Medley
Ben, Orri's Chef, brings a touch of Spanish sun to our kitchen with this latest rice dish. If you are a lover of tomatoes and chickpeas, then you will love this classic dinner recipe - it's simple to make and delicious to eat!
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Your food questions answered by Orri’s Dietetics team
Each week, over on Instagram, we ask our follower community to share their questions for our dietetics team. Here are their most recent answers…
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University Student Support Tips: by Durham University Beat Society
For University Mental Health Day, we spoke with the executive and a member of Durham University Beat Society, for their thoughts on how to support students’ mental health at university.
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Raising awareness: a petition against calories labelling on menus – Guest Blogger
Our community member has launched a petition against calorie labelling on restaurant menus and bravely shares what has driven her to speak out about her cause.
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International Women’s Day, a poem
Nia is one of our Eating Disorder Associates. Here she shares a poem she wrote for International Women’s Day.
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“Happy spring to all at Orri.” – Guest Blogger
Inspired by spring, a member of Orri’s community shares a blog on the changing of seasons and the symbolism for eating disorder recovery.
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For International Women’s Day
This International Women's Day is calling on all to #BreakTheBias. Here, members of our team share their experiences of gender bias that they would like to - or have had to - break in their lives and careers.
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Supporting University Mental Health Day
In solidarity with University Mental Health Day this year, we are highlighting the importance of early intervention with eating disorders, and the unique position universities are in to prevent crisis.
For, no student should ever feel alone with their mental health. And no student should ever have to suffer with an eating disorder alone.
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Orri at London Eating Disorders Conference 2022
Orri attended the London Eating Disorders Conference 2022, taking part in the conversation and movement to 'improving access to care and treatment flexibility in a challenging world'.
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How to navigate a GP appointment for an eating disorder
Seeking help for an eating disorder can be an anxiety-provoking experience, but it's the most important step in recovery. GPs are often the first port of call for when someone has concerns. Here's how to navigate a GP appointment about an eating disorder.
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Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2022
This Eating Disorders Awareness Week, we are supporting our charity partner, Beat, in calling for all UK medical schools and foundation programmes to introduce proper training on eating disorders.
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Meet the Dramatherapist: Stephanie Coombes
Stephanie is Orri's Dramatherapist and IFS Therapist. We sat her down to learn more about her role and approach, and her passion for working with those recovering from eating disorders.
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Meet our Lead Psychological Therapist: Dr Joanna Silver
Dr Joanna Silver is Orri’s Lead Psychological Therapist and joins the Orri team with an abundance of knowledge and passion for eating disorders. We sat her down to learn more about her role and past experience.
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Random Acts of Kindness at Orri
To round off Random Acts of Kindness Week, we’re sharing the acts of kindness that members of our team have done for others.
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Dr Paul Robinson shares his response to our ‘outstanding’ CQC rating
Dr Paul Robinson is Orri's Director of Research and Development and a leading Psychiatrist in the treatment of eating disorders. Having been part of the team since day one, he shares his response to our 'outstanding' CQC rating.
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We’ve been rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
It’s quite something to receive an ‘outstanding’ CQC rating on the day of your 3rd birthday, but here we are! The Care Quality Commission has rated Orri as ‘outstanding’ following its first full inspection! As well as the overall ‘outstanding’ rating, Orri was recognised as ‘outstanding’ in each of the CQC’s five key lines of enquiry – safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.
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Our dietetics team answers your questions
Each week, over on Instagram, we ask our follower community to share their questions for our dietetics team. Here are their most recent answers…
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Eating Disorders and the Black Community
Orri’s Specialist Eating Disorder Dietitian, Beth, explores eating disorder stereotypes and stigma faced by the Black community, and shares recommendations for challenging the white narrative.
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It’s time to talk.
Disclosing that we have an eating disorder is a big step. In fact, it’s the first step we take in recovery – the first of the many shifts and changes we’ll make that opens up our world and communicates that we’re ready for something different. But how do we talk about it? Where do we begin? Here are our thoughts…
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University Student Support Tips, for a new term
Settling back into a new term at university? Navigating this alongside recovery can be a lot to handle. Our Instagram followers share their tips from lived experience.
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“Your recovery voice is cheering you on, today, tomorrow, all the way along” – Orri’s Festive People’s Playlist
Orri's community rocked their way into the festive period with our 'Festive People's Playlist' on Spotify! Each song was contributed by our wonderful clients to share support and build confidence in recovery. Have a listen!
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Being intentional in recovery
Our theme for January is Being Intentional. But what does it mean to be intentional in eating disorder recovery, and how do we go about setting intentions?
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Today’s Beauty – a poem by our Eating Disorder Associate
Nia is an Eating Disorder Associate at Orri and has written a poem to inspire hope and trust in recovery. “For today, giving your best is enough.”
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What are you leaving or taking into 2022?
There’s something very alluring about a new year and the tradition of new year’s resolutions. But the traditional approach tends to lack the compassion, patience and curiosity that many of us nurture throughout recovery from an eating disorder. We invite you to consider an alternative approach and to share your thoughts with us.
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Hannah’s kinder approach to New Years Resolutions
Our Eating Disorder & Research Associate, Hannah, shares her thoughts and suggestions for New Years Resolutions.
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Christmas Tips from our Social Media Recovery Community
Recovery wisdom is best sourced from the people who have been through it. So, we asked our Instagram followers for their tips for maintaining recovery over the festive period. So, we turned to our Instagram community to see what tips they could offer to those who may be struggling with their recovery this season.
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Orri’s Kitchen: Gingerbread Snowflake Cookies
Our Chef, Ben, is back with another recipe! This time, we're going for sweet over savoury with some gingerbread snowflake cookies. Give them a go and share pictures with us on Instagram!
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Recovering at Christmas Webinar
We recently hosted a free webinar about keeping your recovery on track over the festive period. Here is a recap of what we discussed, and you'll find a recording of the webinar at the bottom of the page.
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Orri’s Kitchen: Sage, Onion and Cranberry Biscuit Trees
We've been busy in the kitchen! Orri's Chef, Ben, shares a recipe for Sage, Onion and Cranberry Biscuit Trees in case you want to give it a go at home!
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The cure for it all, by Julia Fehrenbacher
Jacqui, Orri's Online Clinical Manager, shares this poem for recovery by Julia Fehrenbacher. We hope it inspires you to breathe.
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Reflection and Festivities, with our Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist
The festive season can bring mixed feelings for many. It is a time of year where our focus and attention is often pulled outwards – social activities and engagements, seeing friends family, travelling and planning.
Pippa, our Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist, explores how we can reconnect with our bodies and fulfill its needs in recovery.
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A petition against calories labeling on menus – Guest Blogger
In response to the government's anti-obesity legislation, our community member has launched a petition against calorie labeling on restaurant menus.
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10 Practical Tips for your Festive Recovery
The festive season can cause intense stress, anxiety and uncertainty. To help you navigate the festive season, our therapists, Pippa and Linda, have teamed up and share their top tips for keeping your recovery the priority.
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Supporting Beat’s 125 Challenge – Guest Blogger
Our latest Guest Blogger shares her fundraising initiative for Beat's 125 Challenge, spreading the message of "strength, solidarity and hope" to the 125 million eating disorder sufferers in the UK.
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Families and Festivities, from our Consultant Family Therapist
Eating disorders are often coined 'family illnesses' as they don't impact the individual alone, but rather, touch all different family members in different ways. The festive period is an opportunity to come together, but when someone is struggling with an eating disorder, there can be added complexity to this. We spoke to our Consultant Family Therapist, Karen, for her tips.
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Food and Festivities, from our Specialist Eating Disorder Dietitian
The emphasis on food is greater during the festive season and we know that with this can come greater anxiety, especially for people in recovery for an eating disorder. To support you with this, Beth, Orri’s Specialist Eating Disorder Dietitian, shares her guidance for how to cope with food whilst maintaining your eating disorder recovery.
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A workbook for Christmas
The holidays are on the horizon. Whilst many look forward to this time of year, for people in recovery, the festive period can present unique challenges. We've created a free downloadable workbook for anyone wishing to keep their recovery the priority this Christmas.
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Meet the Online Clinical Manager: Jacqui Finnigan
Jacqui is Orri’s Online Clinical Manager and oversees every single online client and staff member to ensure the smooth running of our online service. Having worked in eating disorder treatment for 15 years, she brings with her a wealth of experience and passion in helping clients recover.
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Meet the Eating Disorder and Research Associate: Hannah Hickinbotham
Hannah is an Eating Disorder and Research Associate here at Orri. As well as supporting the clients attending our online programme, she also works closely with Dr Paul Robinson, our Director of Research & Development, to collect outcome data and ensure our service is ever-response to the needs and feedback of our clients and their families.
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Orri Psychotherapist and Men’s Group for Staff: International Men’s Day
Joining the discussion on men and eating disorders for International Men’s Day is Andrew Seed, Orri Psychotherapist and lead of Orri’s Men’s Group for male staff. Below, he discusses how eating disorders can develop in men and woman in relation to a patriarchal system, and what themes we can explore for recovery.
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The best way to celebrate men is to take their mental health seriously – Guest Blogger
Our latest Guest Blogger is Dr Chuks, a specialist eating disorders doctor. He shares his thoughts for International Men's Day.
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Meet the Intake Co-ordinator: Greta Rainyte
Greta is our Intake Co-ordinator and joined the team in 2021! She and Admissions Manager, Ivana, work closely together to respond to enquiries about treatment and support people throughout their admission into Orri. We sat Greta down to learn more about her role.
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How do you and your body respond to stress?
Stress can be an uncomfortable feeling. It can overwhelm our minds and bodies, and when we’re in the midst of that experience it can be hard to view situations objectively and respond with compassionate wisdom.
In this blog post we look at Polyvagal Theory, a collection of evolutionary, neuroscientific and psychological thought about how the nervous system responds to stressors.
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Forgiveness in your recovery
To forgive and to let go can be one of the most freeing forms of self-care and a real demonstration of self-compassion and self-love. Yet we know how hard it can be to forgive. Especially when it feels that past experiences, people or even ourselves have let us down. Here are some thoughts to help guide you to a place of forgiveness in your eating disorder recovery…
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Body Acceptance, with Orri’s Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist
This week is NEDA's Body Acceptance Week, a week where individuals and organisations promote body positivity, body acceptance and body liberation for all. Inspired by the week, we sat with Pippa, Orri's Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist, to find out how we can return to our bodies.
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Orri’s Kitchen: Seasonal Pumpkin Pie
If you are like us and have too many pumpkins leftover from your Halloween antics, then this warming pumpkin pie recipe is a must-bake for your kitchen! Created by Orri's Chef, Ben, our seasonal pumpkin pie is great to make at this time of year when pumpkins are in season.
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Our tips for creating winter routines
As the days get shorter and darker, our routines and our mindset changes as we're pulled towards comfort and warmth. Here's how to navigate that transitional experience.
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Changing seasons – autumn, the season of letting things go
Autumn is a transitional period. As trees shed their leaves, we too can consider what we want to let go and grow from.
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I See, and I’m Seen: The Transformative Process of Witnessing and Emergence of Self.
How can the creative arts support eating disorder recovery? Eve, Orri's Art Psychotherapist, explores in our latest blog, taking inspiration from the autumn season.
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4 things to remember before heading off to university
It's completely normal to struggle during the transition to university. If you're not having a good time "all the time", that is okay! You're not a failure, it just takes time to settle in. Here are 4 things to consider as you prepare for student life in recovery.
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Managing and coping with transitions
Experiencing transitions - or change - can bring about challenges or dilemmas that have the potential to overwhelm us and our ability to cope. Here are our top tips for managing and coping with transitions.
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‘Anorexia’ – poem by our Guest Blogger
Our latest Guest Blogger shares her experience of her illness through a poem, "I am learning that shame and secrecy only allow it more control and that being more open takes away some of its power."
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Helping your child through the transition to university
Transitions have the capacity to illuminate our vulnerabilities, but within that, our opportunities. Here's our tips for parents supporting a child in the transition to university.
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Your checklist for university
A big part of recovery involves holding yourself accountable to your goals and taking proactive steps towards creating an environment that fosters your recovery. Here's a checklist for you to consider ahead of the move to university.
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Moving to university with an eating disorder – Guest Blogger
Our latest Guest Blogger shares her advice for making the transition to university and prioritising recovery, “Recovery is a mindset, and it’s possible to cultivate it wherever you are.”
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Our Dietitian’s tips for recovering at university
Moving to university can be a challenging time because it’s full of change and new experiences. Our Senior Dietitian, Paula, takes us through her top tips for keeping recovery the priority whilst settling into student life.
read moreWhen the work begins…
Our founder and CEO, Kerrie, shares her thoughts about joining an online recovery community.
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Your questions answered about online treatment
We asked our Instagram followers for their questions about online treatment.
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Common fears about online treatment
It’s normal to be apprehensive about treatment for an eating disorder. You’re asking yourself to be incredibly brave in the face of many unknowns and to hold on tight to that small voice inside that knows you deserve better. Here we respond to the common fears around accessing treatment online.
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Preparing for a day online
Our online day treatment meets clients where they are in their lives, and helps them to break free from their eating disorder. Here's how to prepare for your first day.
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Recovery is not what you expect it to be
What do you think recovery is? If you're unsure, this blog is for you.
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Coping with body image pressures in recovery
We know that a lot of people can feel an unprecedented amount of pressure during the summer months. Here, we share our top tips for coping with body image pressures and socialising during the summer months.
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Navigating expectations in eating disorder recovery
Eating disorder recovery is full of questions: how did I get here? What is recovery? When will I recover? Here, we discuss the value of having expectations for recovery, but also the importance of staying compassionate and pacing ourselves along the journey.
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Our Senior Occupational Therapist on navigating the emotions that come with exam results
We know that people living with eating disorders can feel enormous pressure around exams, and that receiving results can be a trigger for intensifying eating disorder behaviours. Our Senior Occupational Therapist discusses the emotions that can arise, and how you can mindfully acknowledge your feelings whilst maintaining eating disorder recovery.
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4 Ways to Process Exam Results
Whilst the exams are over and done with and we cannot control the outcome, we can control how we approach results day and how we process the results themselves.
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Meet the therapist: Linda Swanepoel
Linda joined the clinical team a couple of months ago, whilst still residing in South Africa. With 40 year's experience under her belt, she shares what drew her to work in the mental health field and also what led her to work in Orri's specialist (and unique) eating disorder treatment.
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Eating disorder: Friend or Foe? – Guest Blogger
Our Guest Blogger shares her experience of recognising how the eating disorder was holding her back in life and love.
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Our Senior Psychotherapist on intimacy and eating disorders
Our Senior Psychotherapist, Romy, talks to us about sex, intimacy and relationships, and discusses how we support clients with these themes in treatment.
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A recap of our webinar on Sex, Intimacy and Relationships – Guest Blogger
Our latest Guest Blogger, Ileana, shares a roundup of our recent webinar on Sex, Intimacy and Relationships in Eating Disorder Recovery.
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How your attachment style shows up in sex and intimacy
Throughout July we’re talking about Sex, Intimacy and Relationships in eating disorder recovery. Here, we look at John Bowlby’s attachment styles, and discuss how each attachment style can show up in sexual relationships.
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Our client’s experience of intimacy and relationships in recovery
Our alumni client shares her experience of intimacy and relationships in recovery from an eating disorder, demonstrating how recovery is so much more than improving your relationship to food, and in fact reaches into all areas of our lives.
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Setting boundaries in relationships
Boundaries are what we set so that we don't reach our limit. Here, we talk about the importance of boundaries in relationships, and what people living with eating disorders can do to implement them.
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How eating disorders impact relationships
This month we’re talking about Sex, Intimacy and Relationships in Recovery. As social animals, we are all impacted by these things, yet for various reasons the topics are rarely discussed in treatment settings. Here, we look at how eating disorders impact relationships.
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Meet the Eating Disorder Associate: Jemina Nkwocha
Jemina joined the team as one of Orri’s Eating Disorder Associates. Her past experience working in inpatient settings, along with her passion for supporting those living with eating disorders, makes her a fantastic addition to the team. Read on to learn more about her role at Orri.
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Orri’s Kitchen: Yoghurt Cake Recipe
On the look-out for a homemade summery snack? Our chef, Ben, shares one of his favourite recipes that he learnt whilst skiing! Not a pro baker? No fear, according to Ben this is impossible to mess up…
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Keeping motivated in recovery – Guest Blogger
"They say patience is a virtue and you certainly need it in spades during eating disorder recovery." Our latest Guest Blogger shares their thoughts around keeping motivated in recovery.
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Dietetics and eating disorder recovery
For #DietitiansWeek this year, Orri’s senior clinicians came together to discuss how to heal our relationship to food in eating disorder recovery. Here’s a recap of what was discussed.
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How to break the cycle of binge eating disorder
Binge eating disorder can be extremely distressing and is characterised by eating a larger amount of food than normal in a short space of time. Here, our Senior Dietitian, Paula, shares her tips for breaking the cycle of bingeing.
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Our tips for handling mealtimes this summer
Summer is finally here, and with the weather warming up, it's likely you'll find yourself at some sort of picnic or BBQ. Whatever the setting, mealtimes in recovery can be hard. Here are our tips for navigating summer socials.
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Men get eating disorders too.
The myth that “men don’t get eating disorders” is harmful and outdated. Here are our thoughts for Men's Health Week.
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Meet the therapist: Eve Jones
Eve is an Art Psychotherapist and recently joined the team, bringing with her a splash of colour for our treatment programmes. Read on to hear more about her role and how she supports people in recovery from eating disorders.
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Eating disorders do not discriminate
June is Pride Month. Many LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges that put them at greater risk of developing an eating disorder.
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Coping with the exam and assessment period
The exam and assessment period is often a time of high anxiety. Pressure to revise and to ‘do well’ can exacerbate symptoms of an eating disorder as we attempt to cope with overwhelming emotions and uncertainty. Here are our thoughts.
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Food and recovery with Orri – all you need to know
We know just how daunting it can be to consider treatment for an eating disorder. Our CEO and founder, Kerrie, shares all you need to know about food and recovery at Orri. Together, we take things step by step and at your pace.
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Breaking the cycle of bulimia
Throughout the month of June we’re talking about food and recovery. Today we’re talking about bulimia, and specifically about how to break out of the cycle of bingeing and purging that many find themselves in.
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Meet the Consultant Family Therapist: Karen Carberry
Karen is Orri’s Consultant Family Therapist and has been with the team since day one! We sat her down to learn more about her role and specialist work with our clients.
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Meet the Eating Disorder Associate: Haley Justice
Haley is one of Orri’s Eating Disorder Associates (EDAs) and has been part of the team since Orri reopened its in person service in April. We sat her down to learn more about her role and interest in supporting those living with eating disorders…
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A mindful moment with our Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist
Do you have 9 minutes to spare? Our Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist, Pippa, guides us through a mindful practice and shares how mindfulness can support eating disorder recovery.
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Mindfulness – where to start?
People often come to the practice of mindfulness in response to the realisation that they may not be engaging fully in the present, or having experienced their emotions as overwhelming and sudden. You may be wondering, where do I start?
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3 ways we use mindfulness at Orri
Throughout the month of May we’re reflecting on the use of mindfulness as a tool for eating disorder recovery. Here are 3 ways we use mindfulness in treatment.
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Connect with nature
It's Mental Health Awareness Week and the theme is #ConnectWithNature. Here are our thoughts...
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What is mindfulness and how does it support recovery?
The path of recovery asks us to become aware of our internal experience; our thoughts, our beliefs, our emotions and how these inform our actions, behaviours and relationships.
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Black Out, a poem by our client
Forging a space for creative expression is a huge part of our therapeutic approach at Orri. Here, one of our clients kindly shares a poem she wrote and brought to a group therapy session.
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“Braving love and hope…” a poem by our client
Poetry “forces us to confront our innermost thoughts and feelings…it provides a comfortable format to be able to share them with others”. Today, we share a poem written by one of our clients for a group therapy session with Senior Occupational Therapist, Kendra.
read moreMeet the Chef: Ben
Chef Ben joined the team just a few weeks ago, yet he's already stirred much enthusiasm in the kitchen! We sat him down to discover the inspiration behind the apron. Today, he shares his Asian inspiration, near-dessert disasters, and offers a glimpse into how he works with our Senior Dietitian, Paula.
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Maternal mental health
Maternal mental health has traditionally been a challenging area to approach, as it is often surrounded by silence and a reluctance for exploration. People can feel very uncertain about what to say and how to approach it. Here are our thoughts for Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week...
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Coping with socialising and social eating
Lockdown has ended and life is beginning to return to “normal”. But for those living with eating disorders, “normal” might feel pretty daunting. Especially with the promise of pubs and restaurants reopening and the return of social eating. We spoke to our Senior Occupational Therapist, Kendra, for her top tips.
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What is MANTRA (Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults)?
MANTRA stands for the Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults and is one of the modalities we use at Orri to support our clients with their eating disorder recovery. Click here for a deep-dive into the approach.
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Surviving 27, by our client
Our client shares a poem she wrote for her 27th birthday, "My body is now stronger, I am starting to find my voice."
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BBC Five Live Interview: Kerrie Jones and Naga Munchetty
Following the tragic and untimely death of Nikki Grahame, Kerrie Jones, CEO & Founder, spoke with Naga Munchetty from BBC Radio 5 Live about the impact of lockdown on eating disorders, and how to support loved ones who are struggling.
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4 ways to keep your recovery on track now lockdown has ended
We’re gradually dipping our toe back into a semblance of “normality” here in England. But what if you found lockdown life actually peaceful and helpful for your recovery? What if the prospect of returning to “normality” is really daunting?
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Lockdown has ended, but you don’t have to engage with negative talk around food
As is often the case with milestones in the year, sadly there has been a lot of negative talk around food in light of lockdown ending. We spoke to our Senior Occupational Therapist about how to cope with negative food talk whilst in recovery.
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#RecoveringTogether and reopening
No one should have to recover from their eating disorder alone. As we prepare the building for Monday’s reopening, we’ll be shining a light on how we have been – and always will be – #RecoveringTogether.
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“How to save a life” from our client
A client shares her heart-warming experience of Orri's online treatment programme, "The approach everyone takes is so different to any other treatment I have had before."
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When does exercise become an addiction?
It can be difficult to spot a harmful relationship to exercise as our culture celebrates activities that are perceived to be contributing to our health and wellbeing. If we’re unable to spot the intention beneath the activity, as well as how it may be negatively impacting areas of a person’s life, important opportunities for intervention can be missed.
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Treatment that keeps you safe after lockdown
The pandemic challenged so many aspects of our safety. With lockdown ending, the world is gradually dipping its toe back into “normal” waters. Feeling “safe” in these waters is so important from a psychological perspective. Here's how Orri will keep you safe in treatment...
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Online or in person treatment?
Our London centre is opening its doors once more on Monday 12th April. Our online treatment, first launched during the first lockdown, will remain alongside. You may be wondering, which treatment is better suited for me? This blog post looks into each one a little deeper!
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Dealing with negative body image and lockdown ending
If you're struggling with the idea of being seen again once lockdown ends, here are some things we want you to know and some tips from our Senior Occupational Therapist, Kendra...
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What is group therapy and how does it work?
Group therapy is a daunting prospect. Sitting around in a room filled with (initially) strangers and sharing your feelings? That takes courage! So what is it and how does it work? We sat our Senior Psychotherapist, Romy, down to learn more...
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Body, a poem by our client
Our client shares a poem she wrote about her relationship to her body during recovery from anorexia. We hope that when you read this you know that you are not alone. There is hope that things can and will get better.
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Meet the Registered Mental Health Nurse: Victoria Hall
Getting to know Orri's Registered Mental Health Nurse, Victoria. Here, she shares her inspiration for her role and what destiny had in store for her career.
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Reflections on Eating Disorders Awareness Week
We were in awe watching the response to Eating Disorders Awareness Week this year. So many safe spaces were carved out to facilitate important discussions, and in the process, highlighted key themes around treatment and recovery that we endeavour to explore further as part of our outreach work at Orri.
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“Somewhere” – a poem by our client
A poem written by one of our clients.
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Break Up Letter: inspiration from our client
Our brave client's break up letter to her eating disorder.
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Mindfully approaching cravings in recovery from Binge Eating Disorder
Our Psychotherapist, Justine, shares her thoughts around mindfully managing cravings when in recovery from Binge Eating Disorder.
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The Not so Hungry Caterpillar – Guest Blogger
Our latest Guest Blogger reflects on her journey of recovery, demonstrating the immense power of being brave and asking someone if they’re ok, “I don’t see myself as having lost 40 years of my life, I feel privileged that I have now been recovered for 5 years and they’ve been great!”.
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Our Consultant Family Therapist’s Recommended Reading for the BAME Community
For Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Karen and Kerrie hosted a webinar with the co-editors of the new book, Treating Black Women with Eating Disorders, A Clinician’s Guide. Here are Karen's recommended readings for the BAME community, as shared during the webinar.
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A workbook for Binge Eating Disorder
For Eating Disorders Awareness Week, we're sharing our top tips for breaking out of the cycle of binge eating disorder.
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“I have the tools I need to carry on in my recovery.”
For Eating Disorders Awareness Week, we spoke to our client, Richard, about his journey with binge eating disorder and starting his recovery journey at Orri.
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Treating black women with eating disorders
For Eating Disorders Awareness Week, the co-editors of the groundbreaking new book, Treating Black Women with Eating Disorders: A Clinicians Guide, share their reasons for coming together to write the book. "Our hope is that it will encourage increased cultural sensitivity training, further collaboration, research and education for an underrepresented population."
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Redefining your relationship to food when suffering from Binge Eating Disorder
For our Senior Dietitian, Paula, thinking about food differently and redefining our relationship with food is an essential piece of work in recovery from Binge Eating Disorder. Here are some ways she supports our clients in treatment.
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Binge eating disorder myths and misconceptions
It's Eating Disorders Awareness Week and this week we're shining a spotlight on binge eating disorder. We spoke to our Psychotherapist, Lauren, about the myths and misconceptions around the illness that can prevent people from accessing support.
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The emotional experience of having and recovering from an eating disorder – Guest Blogger
Ileana is a Psychology Master’s student at the University of Bristol. Here, she reflects on the emotional experience of anorexia and how far she has journeyed in her recovery.
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Meet the therapist: Lauren Aron
Lauren is a Psychotherapist with Orri and joined the team in January this year. We've asked her about her approach and role within Orri!
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Our Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist on making friends with your emotions
This month we are talking about the emotional experience of having - and recovering from - an eating disorder. In this blog, Orri's Yoga and Body Awareness Therapist, Pippa, shares her wisdom around making friends with your emotions.
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“To anyone with an eating disorder, remember you can recover.”
This month we are talking about the emotional experience of having - and recovering from - an eating disorder. In this blog, one of our clients generously shares her experience of her eating disorder and recovery within treatment.
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Our Senior Psychologist on why emotions are important
This month we are talking about the emotional experience of having - and recovering from - an eating disorder. In this blog, Orri’s Senior Eating Disorder Psychologist, Katie, shares her thoughts on why emotions are important.
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Understanding emotions and feelings
This month we are talking about the emotional experience of having - and recovering from - an eating disorder. In this blog, we are going to look at how emotions and feelings work and relate that to the emotional experience of an eating disorder.
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How do I start recovery when I’m not ready?
The truth is that there’ll never feel like a “right time” to recover - there’ll always be a number of excuses for why you could stay in the same situation, and the “voice” of the eating disorder might rail against any suggestion of help and support. But choosing recovery is the right thing to do.
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“Recovery is possible, I am in recovery, and I am so worth it.”
Our client shares her experiencing of finding freedom with recovery, "As the time draws near for me to finish treatment with Orri, I thought what better time than now to write a farewell blog about finding Hope, finding Belief and finding my Freedom."
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Transitions and recovery with Orri
As Eating Disorder Specialists, we recognise the impact that transitions can have on our clients and respond to those experiences through treatment. Our “stepped approach” allows clients to transition through the programme, starting with more intensive treatment in the beginning, and then gradually “stepping down” to less support as they progress in their recovery.
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“It’s worth it, because amidst the struggles good things happen too”
Our client shares her thoughts about finding hope and resilience amidst the pandemic. "One day I will, we will, recognise the unsteadiness of the ground under our feet and still stand strong, hold hope, keep going. That is resilience."
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“I came to you as a real lost soul”
Our client shares a poem about her recovery with Orri. We are consistently moved and touched by the creativity and kindness of our clients. They really are what makes Orri what it is – a safe, warm and welcoming space for eating disorder recovery.
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3 things we ask you in an assessment
We know that it’s a brave and courageous decision to reach out for help with an eating disorder. There can be a lot of fear associated with the thought of letting go of something that, ultimately, helps to you to feel safe and in control of your day-to-day life. Here's how we approach assessments at Orri.
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“In short, Orri has given me my life back”
"Before Orri I was just existing in survival mode, now with their help, support and guidance I am now living in recovery and I can finally see a life without my ED." Our client shares her experience in Orri's online treatment.
read moreA note from Kerrie: welcoming the new year
I wanted to take a moment to reach out to our community here in the middle of what has been another unpredictable month and entry into 2021. If there was ever a test of our ability to ride the waves, and be in the moment, I would say we are all collectively living it.
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Setting Intentions For Eating Disorder Recovery
The third Monday of January has been nicknamed Blue Monday because it’s supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Today we’re sharing our top tip for dealing with difficult Mondays: setting intentions.
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Therapist’s tips for helping someone you love through a transition
When our world changes considerably, be it through the experience of the pandemic or entering a new chapter in life such as university, we can experience a feeling of great loss or fracture.
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Our Occupational Therapist’s tips for managing transitions
Our Senior Occupational Therapist shares her thoughts around how transitions impact people suffering with eating disorders, as well as her top tips for managing them.
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Why Orri is different
As a social impact-led business, we exist to make tangible change in the eating disorder community. This means that we prioritise work that consciously serves the community, and solves a community need.
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“My first experience of Orri was one of nervous relief”
Our client kindly shares her experience of eating disorder recovery with Orri. "My first experience of Orri was one of nervous relief. I had never encountered people who sincerely wanted to know ME and what I wanted from treatment, and ultimately, my life..."
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The Guesthouse – a poem
This beautiful poem about welcoming our full, emotional experience as human beings was shared by one of the Orri team members. We hope that you enjoy it.
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A Poem for Recovery This Christmas – Guest Blogger
Lizzie, an expert by experience and friend of Orri, shared a poem a wrote with our clients for Christmas.
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Creating and holding boundaries over Christmas
What are boundaries and why are they important in eating disorder recovery, and particularly at Christmas time?
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6 ways to boost your mental health this Christmas
Over the weekend we received some difficult news about Christmas. A holiday that is all about coming together no longer has that emphasis and many are understandably struggling with the adjustment. If you’re feeling a little (or a lot) exhausted and beaten down by this year, here are 6 ways to improve your mental health.
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Orri’s Response: Fifth of women in England may have an eating disorder (The Times)
There’s been a sharp intake of breath in response to the recent data from the Health Survey for England 2019 Eating Disorders report. As eating disorder specialists, we’ve known that there are many more people suffering with eating disorders than usually reported. Yet, it is still staggering to learn that it’s a fifth of women and 13% of men in the UK who could test positive for an eating disorder.
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Coping with the Festive Season: Tips from our Social Media Community
The holidays are almost upon us, and whilst many people are eager to celebrate, we are aware that some people - particularly those living with eating disorders - can struggle at this time of year. We asked our Instagram followers for their tips for coping with Christmas and the festive season...
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“Where words fail, music speaks” – A Playlist for Hope
As the quote goes, “music can heal wounds that medicine cannot touch” – music is a medicine in and of itself. As we entered the second lockdown, our clients came together to share songs of hope, and now you can hear it too.
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Coping with Triggering Conversations in Recovery – Guest Blogger
The holidays can be a difficult time of year for people suffering with an eating disorder. An emphasis on reconnecting with loved ones can mean that we see family members or friends we haven’t seen in a while…and this can bring up a lot for someone in recovery. Our latest Guest Blogger shares their tips for coping with triggering conversations...
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Am I holding onto anger?
As the saying goes “if you’re not speaking it, you’re storing it - and that gets heavy”, not expressing our true feelings can cause a multitude of issues. These include: not knowing how to communicate our values and needs, a feeling of bitterness, anger that can manifest through depression, anxiety and, most importantly for this audience, ‘acting out’.
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Winter and the Second Lockdown: Turning Inwards, Finding Hope – Guest Blogger
Ileana is a Psychology Master’s student at the University of Bristol. Here, she reflects on entering the second lockdown during the winter season, considering how we might take steps forward in recovery by 'turning inward' like nature during the season of hibernation.
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Orri’s Response: Anorexia: How the eating disorder took the lives of five women (BBC News)
A mother, an Olympic hopeful, a medical student, a waitress and a writer. In a recent article, BBC News asked: "What do the lives and deaths of five women tell us about how anorexia is managed and treated?" This is Orri's response to their article.
read moreOur Psychologist’s Recommendations for the Second Lockdown
Dr Katie Kalinowski is Orri’s Clinical Psychologist. As we enter our second lockdown, here are her 3 tips for keeping recovery on track. "You are allowed to look after your wellbeing even if it doesn’t feel like you’re earning it.”
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Moving online for the second lockdown
The decision to move online was not an easy one, and we are very aware of the implications the first lockdown had on the wider eating disorder community. However, preserving the safety of our clients has always been at the heart of Orri’s approach.
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How does your body experience stress?
When we talk about stress, we have to talk about the nervous system. Initially, it was understood that there were two parts of the nervous system: the para-sympathetic and the sympathetic, however an update to our understanding of the nervous system introduced the poly-vagal theory with the introduction of a third strand of the nervous system. Here’s how stress plays a role in poly-vagal theory...
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6 ways to create a routine for winter
We're writing to you today on a crisp, grey afternoon, where the autumn season feels more and more like winter. Does it feel like this for you, too? When seasons change, our routine changes. Just as the trees let go of their leaves in order to turn inward and conserve energy, we may let go of activities that we no longer have the - mental or physical - energy for, in order to rest and restore in winter months.
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Orri’s Kitchen: Ooky-Spooky Cookie Recipe
Halloween parties may be off the cards, but we can still celebrate with baked goods! Michael, Orri's superb Head Chef, shares an Ooky-Spooky Cookie recipe for the Halloween weekend.
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Recovery inspiration from our clients
Perhaps people have told you that recovery isn’t possible, or, that recovery is years and years and years away…we don’t blame you if that mindset has made you feel disempowered and discouraged (we would feel this way to). We believe that recovery is possible, particularly because we see it happen every day at Orri...
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Black History Month: Eating Disorders and Body Image
Orri's Consultant Family Therapist, Karen Carberry, shares her thoughts for Black History Month "...we are reminded that eating disorders occur across race, cultures and genders, and therefore when treating Black people in this field - who are an underrepresented group in our services - inclusivity of body images and representation across client, staff groups, and educational literature is key to enhance self-worth."
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Meet the Eating Disorder Associate: Alice Pegram
Alice is one of Orri's Eating Disorder Associates and joined the team in September upon the reopening of our face-to-face service in London! We sat her down to learn more about her role and interest in treating eating disorders...
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Menopause and Eating Disorders
Today is World Menopause Day and we are taking the day to reflect on eating disorders and menopause. At Orri, part of our social impact initiative is to raise awareness of the multitude of ways people can experience having an eating disorder. In this way, we attempt to tackle the stigma and stereotypes that surround the illness...
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Reflections on World Mental Health Day
This weekend we celebrated World Mental Health Day, reflecting on how, in light of the pandemic, mental health has been an urgent and consistent talking point over the past 6-7 months.
read moreOur Senior Dietitian’s Tips for University
We’re going through unprecedented, uncertain times. When suffering with an eating disorder, often during uncertain times we can search for certainty in things such as food, our weight or body shape. Paula is our Senior Dietitian at Orri. Here, she shares her top tips for how to keep your recovery on track whilst making the transition to university.
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Student Tips from the Orri Team
Our Eating Disorder Associates share their mental health tips for new or returning university students - or for anyone else going through a pivotal change or transition right now! We hope these words of support help you navigate your new chapters, safely, and with the reminder that you really are not alone.
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Contemplating Recovery: the stages of change
We know that people who reach out for eating disorder treatment have often thought about the decision a lot. In fact, a whole lot of recovery work takes place before even entering treatment as it takes a lot of courage to admit that there’s a problem and then to take steps towards reaching out...
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“I’m not ill enough for treatment….”
We know that a lot of people are contemplating recovery right now, and the question of being “ill enough” for treatment is something that many people contend with during this time...
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Meet The Marketing Team: Antalia
Introducing our amazing Marketing Assistant, Antalia, who joined the team during lockdown and has fast become part of the furniture!
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Shaping peace together through compassion, kindness and hope
Today we’re thinking about the importance of compassion, kindness and hope in the face of Covid-19.
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Handling mealtimes as a student.
We are right in the midst of student season. As we type, people are moving away or establishing themselves in an odd, virtual student world that no one quite knows how to navigate. With new environments and new schedules, comes new routines. For those in recovery from an eating disorder, routines are really important as they help individuals feel safe and secure in day-to-day life...
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Heading to university? This blog is for you.
The transition from school to university can be a difficult time. It typically comes at a point in life when many individuals are at a higher risk of developing a mental illness, such as an eating disorder, and the integration of new environments, routines and people can have a significant impact on our resilience. “Yes, you’re learning the subject matter for your degree, but you’re also learning about who you are.”
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5 Ways to Keep Your Recovery on Track
We hold onto the hope that someone doesn't have to "learn to live with" their eating disorder. We believe that with the right type and amount of support, and with dedication and commitment to the work of recovery, everyone can learn to live without the eating disorder. Keeping your recovery on track involves a few small - but really important - things...
read moreA note from Kerrie: Welcoming you back to Orri
"Today I sit, once again at my laptop, 6 months on, older and wiser (naturally!), and I am humbled, excited and relieved to be able to say that we are looking forward to welcoming you all to Orri this week." Kerrie shares her thoughts on reopening our London clinic.
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