EDQ training for non-clinical workers

Organisation / Service

EDQ


Go to EDQ training for non-clinical workers (edqfirststepstosupport.com.au)

Research has shown us that early identification and treatment are important factors in eating disorder recovery: leading to faster recovery, a higher likelihood of long-term recovery, and greater symptom reduction. However, it’s common for people with eating disorders to delay seeking help, or even not to seek help at all. Often when a person does seek help, it’s for other problems or concerns, and it’s unlikely to be from an eating disorder-specific professional or organisation.

Workers in non-clinical and first-contact roles, including support workers, support coordinators, peer workers, community engagement workers, education staff, and administrative staff, are often the first point of contact, which means you play an important role in:

  • Identifying that someone might be experiencing an eating disorder and supporting them to access treatment.
  • Providing clients with helpful and research-supported information about eating disorders and treatment options.
  • Breaking down the eating disorder stigma.
  • Assisting clients to find the right treatment options for them, or providing information about what treatment options are available.

This training is aimed to support workers in non-clinical roles who are NOT providing medical, clinical or therapeutic eating disorder treatment.

After completing this training, you will:

  • Have a better understanding of eating disorders
  • Have gained the knowledge and skills to support clients with an eating disorder through early identification and appropriate referrals
  • Have the appropriate language to assist clients
  • Be able to break down eating disorder stigma in the community

National Strategy Standards and Actions

Identification

Standard 2: Professionals at key entry or referral points (e.g., GPs, emergency department staff, school counsellors, mental health professionals, dietitians, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners, Alcohol and Other Drug workers, staff in sporting/performance organisations) can recognise eating disorder warning signs and symptoms and provide or support access to an initial response.

Action 2.2: Eating disorder service development and lived experience organisations to disseminate accessible online/face-to-face training, and evidence-based screening tools to support health and mental health professionals in identification.


« Back to National Strategy Action Hub