First Scots facility dedicated to eating disorders opens

Published on Monday 25 May 2009 18:59

THE first dedicated unit in Scotland, aimed at treating patients suffering from anorexia, bulimia and other eating disorders, was officially opened in Aberdeen yesterday by Health Minister Shona Robison.

The Eden Unit, based at the Royal Cornhill Hospital in Aberdeen, is the first in-patient facility to deal specifically with eating disorders in the country.

The ward, which has ten beds, opened its doors in February to take referrals

and the unit will normally deal with 18 to 65 year-olds, but in some cases under-18s will be considered for treatment.

Ms Robison praised the new facility. She said:

"With individually tailored care by dedicated staff, in a safe and therapeutic environment, I have no doubt that it will make a real difference."

Dr Harry Millar, the consultant psychiatrist in charge of the unit, said: "Treatment at the unit includes group treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, body awareness, body image, self-esteem and nutritional education. We also provide art therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy."