Maree Burns & Eating Difficulties Education Network (EDEN)

Maree has been involved in voluntary work with EDEN in a variety of roles since 1999. She has always had a strong desire to volunteer her time and energy to the collective in whatever capacity was useful. She has since served on the governance committee, worked as a support worker, administration assistant and in a coordination role.

Maree remained involved with EDEN during the completion of her PhD in psychology (2004) in which her thesis involved a social psychological analysis of the eating disorder bulimia. This combined with the academic scholarships she was awarded in the field, has cemented and supported a strong commitment to her work.

Maree has very clear goals for her World of Difference year. She says establishing an efficient counselling service and securing more sustainable funding are key. She also wants to raise the profile of EDEN and put the issues of eating difficulties and disorders on the mental health agenda.

Maree says the focus of EDEN over the past 14 years has shifted from problem-based service provision to prevention and health promotion that recognises the interconnectedness of weight issues in all their forms.

“Disordered eating and body dissatisfaction robs people of their passion, energies, and their ability to participate fully in life. This doesn’t need to be the case. Adequate services for young people directed at prevention, health promotion, treatment and support can make all the difference.”

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