Medical Emergencies in Eating Disorders

In this weeks episode Han is joined by Vicky Vella.

With Vicky, we begin by speaking about the current work they do in order to support medical staff working with individuals with eating disorders, ranging from dietitians to nurses to obstetricians, and the role that they may play in eating disorder treatment.

We then discuss the new guidelines, MEED, which stands for Medical Emergencies in Eating Disorders. The new guidance from the Royal College of Psychiatrists is based on the advice and recommendations of an Expert Working Group provides. It provides a comprehensive overview of the latest evidence associated with eating disorders, including highlighting the importance and role of healthcare professionals from right across the spectrum recognising their responsibilities in this area.

We talk about managing compensatory behaviours, refeeding syndrome, and NG tube feeding, and how they should be managed for eating disorder patients. We also speak about parental support and how parents can support their loved ones when admitted to hospital.

To find out more about Vicky and the training they provide, you can find them on Twitter @VickyVella2.

Please note that this episode discusses eating disorder behaviours and inpatient admission that may be required. Please tread lightly and check in with yourself along the way.

Recent Posts

Understanding ARFID Through the Lens of Emetophobia
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 8, 2025
Emetophobia is the intense fear of vomiting. Learn how it shows up in daily life, how it connects with eating disorders like ARFID, and what strategies can help.
The Illusion of Healing Binge Eating Disorder with Weight Loss Medication
By Hannah Hickinbotham September 1, 2025
Discover why GLP-1 medications like Ozempic may reduce food noise but can't heal binge eating disorder. Explore what true recovery involves, from regular eating to emotional awareness and reconnecting with your body.
The hidden costs of cosmetic procedures in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 28, 2025
Explore why cosmetic surgery often fails to resolve body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), the crucial role of clinicians, and how tools like Prepare support safer, more informed aesthetic decisions.
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 18, 2025
ARFID needs urgent recognition - and we're here to help with that.
The Realities of Living with  Binge Eating Disorder
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 11, 2025
Binge eating disorder is one of the most misunderstood eating disorders. In this heartfelt conversation, advocate Zoe Hazel shares her lived experience, the truth behind the stigma, and practical steps toward recovery.
Breaking the cycle - how to talk to children about food
By Hannah Hickinbotham August 1, 2025
Discover how to talk to children about food in a healthy, inclusive way. Learn from Dr. Anna Colton about breaking intergenerational diet culture and healing together.
Show More