Eating disorders in sport: Opening Coaches’ Eyes

Erasmus+ Sport Project (Project 101134476)

The aim and vision of the Eating disorders in sport: Opening coaches' eyes (EDS - OCE) project is to contribute to mental health initiatives within regional sport environment by increasing awareness about the problem of eating disorders in sport.
Eating disorders in gymnasts
Eating disorders in gymnasts
eating disorder in ski jumping
eating disorder in climbing sports

About the project

The main aim is to develop an educational tool (interactive workshop) for coaches that would increase their awareness about eating disorders.

The objectives are centred on three key pillars: (a) state of the art study on eating disorders in sport (analysis of existing literature), (b) thorough needs assessment by collecting qualitative data in three applied partner organisations, and (c) development and evaluation of eating disorders in sport workshop for coaches.

Tips for coaches

01

Formal procedure for handling athletes suspected of having PH

The protocol for dealing with athletes suspected of having an eating disorder defines steps for identifying, communicating, and resolving suspected eating disorders in athletes. The goal is to protect the health of athletes through collaboration with parents, clubs, and health authorities, temporary suspension of activities, and support in the recovery process.
02

List of symptoms and signs for recognizing disorders

Understanding the symptoms and signs of the disorder is essential for responding promptly and providing the necessary help. This guide provides a concise overview of common symptoms that may indicate different types of physical, mental, or emotional conditions. By recognizing these signs, you can take steps toward an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
03

How to communicate with an athlete with an eating disorder

How to Communicate with an Athlete with an Eating Disorder provides guidance for building a trusting relationship through compassion, understanding, and a non-intrusive approach. The goal is to encourage open conversation, provide support, and ensure the athlete's safety and well-being during recovery.

Our team

Renata Barić

Prof. dr. sc Renata Barić

sportski psiholog

Hrvoje Handl

Hrvoje Handl

psihijatar, psihoanalitičar, voditelj Dnevne bolnice za poremećaje prehrane Klinike za psihijatriju Sveti Ivan

Maja Žanko

Maja Žanko

mag. nutricionizma, spec.za poremećaje hranjenja i grupna terapeutkinja u edukaciji

Saša Cecić Erpić

Saša Cecić Erpič

izr. prof. dr. Saša Cecić Erpić

Marijo Možnik

Marijo Možnik

Kineziološki fakultet

Josipa Radaš

Josipa Radaš

Hrvatski gimnastički savez

Lucija Milčić

Doc. dr. sc. Lucija Milčić

Kineziološki fakultet

Latest news

More specifically, the aim is to determine the extent to which sport coaches can identify eating disorders in their respective sports (artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, climbing and skiing), which are the limiting factors that influence the process of recognising symptoms and reacting to them, and what advice they would offer to athletes with eating disorders.

Project goals

As such, this project directly addresses the Erasmus+ horizontal priority for Sport: ‘Promoting education in and through sport’ and more specifically, the sub-priorities: ‘Supporting skills development in sport’ and ‘Promoting the quality of coaching and staff’.
01

Identification

Giving a name to the communication problems that arise between coach and athlete that can lead to ED. Scientific papers, our interwiews.
02

Valuations

Giving identified problems their value and possible solutions.
03

Education

Workshops with trainers as a direct product of identification and evaluation.

Consortium

Full name of the project (Eating Disorders in Sport: Opening Coaches’ Eyes) Erasmus+ Sport Project (Project 101134476)

The aim and vision of the Eating disorders in sport: Opening coaches' eyes (EDS - OCE) project is to contribute to mental health initiatives within regional sport environment by increasing awareness about the problem of eating disorders in sport.

More specifically, the aim is to determine the extent to which sport coaches can identify eating disorders in their respective sports (artistic and rhythmic gymnastics, climbing and skiing), which are the limiting factors that influence the process of recognising symptoms and reacting to them, and what advice they would offer to athletes with eating disorders.

The main aim is to develop an educational tool (interactive workshop) for coaches that would increase their awareness about eating disorders. The objectives are centred on three key pillars: (a) state of the art study on eating disorders in sport (analysis of existing literature), (b) thorough needs assessment by collecting qualitative data in three applied partner organisations, and (c) development and evaluation of eating disorders in sport workshop for coaches.

These educational resources and tools will be developed, implemented, evaluated, and disseminated within the project lifespan. The project provides a direct added value within the EU context by focusing on the development of mental health competencies of coaches. As such, this project directly addresses the Erasmus+ horizontal priority for Sport: ‘Promoting education in and through sport’ and more specifically, the sub-priorities: ‘Supporting skills development in sport’ and ‘Promoting the quality of coaching and staff’.

Leading partner University of Ljubljana Faculty of Sport, Slovenia
Ski Association of Slovenia
Alpine Association of Slovenia
University of Zagreb Faculty of Kinesiology, Croatia
Psychiatric Hospital Sveti Ivan Zagreb, Croatia
Gymnastic Association of Croatia

Applied aspects of eating disorders in sport Essential readings on eating disorders in sport
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