More seek help for eating disorders and self-harm

The Association for Eating Disorders and Self-Harm engaged in a record 6,754 conversations last year, a 22% increase from the previous year. The association’s volunteers, who have personal experience with these issues, offer support via phone or chat. Director Laila Walther notes a rising demand for support, with children and young adults aged 13-25 making up nearly a third of the calls. Despite extended chat hours thanks to Ole Kirk’s Foundation, the association struggles to meet the high demand, recording an average of eight missed calls daily. In 2024, 1,641 calls went unanswered, and many youths prefer the chat service, where unanswered contacts aren’t recorded. The association received a one-time financial boost of one million kroner from last year’s budget, which has not been repeated.