InsideOut Institute e-Therapy program launches with world-first clinic for eating disorders

A groundbreaking, government-funded online service offering around-the-clock care has launched to address a rise in eating disorders.

Zoe Brown says there is so much shame around eating disorders but InsideOut Institute’s new e-Clinic service could empower people to talk to friends and family. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Sydney woman Zoe Brown had to wait seven years before being formally diagnosed with an eating disorder after developing symptoms aged 13.

Her recovery, she said, took even longer.

“For a number of years, as a lot of people probably do in the early years of their eating disorder, I just made excuses when people were noticing I was losing weight,” she said.

“There’s so much shame around (eating disorders) because nobody talks about it.”

Now, a new national service funded by the federal government will expand access to lifesaving care after today’s launch in Canberra of a world-first, online service that provides 24/7 care, including evidence-based recovery programs.

Zoe Brown participated in the trial for the InsideOut Institute’s e-Clinic funded by the federal government. Picture: Jonathan Ng

The InsideOut Institute’s e-Clinic – in partnership with Sydney Local Health District – offers self-paced programs, including specialised treatment for binge eating and bulimia nervosa, alongside support for carers and a healthcare professional hub.

Ms Brown, who participated in a trial of the program, said the clinic’s Binge Eating e-Therapy program made her feel she could commit to her recovery in a safe way.

It involved a series of modules and sessions with an online therapist, that she completed in the comfort of her home.

“If it’s not something that you’re ready to share and talk about with other people, then I think this is one of the perfect first steps that could then empower someone to talk to friends and family.

“Then, pairing the online e-program with an in-person therapist. It could boost the likelihood of them getting to recovery that little bit faster.”

InsideOut Institute Director Sarah Maguire said early detection and treatment is critical in combating eating disorders which are on the rise.

“The eClinic acts as a front door to the health system, delivering free, evidence-based treatment at scale,” Professor Maguire said.

“It makes expert support accessible to everyone.”

Originally published as InsideOut Institute e-Therapy program launches with world-first clinic for eating disorders