A Co Cavan man is advocating for increased education surrounding eating disorders, sharing his personal experience with anorexia in an effort to destigmatize the condition and encourage early intervention. Conor Nolan, from Blacklion, has been delivering talks in schools across Ireland about his journey and the importance of mental wellbeing.
Nolan’s advocacy comes as Bodywhys, the Eating Disorders Association of Ireland, continues its annual Eating Disorders Awareness Week, running until today, March 1st. The organization is hosting a series of in-person and online events focused on the role of community support in recovery.
“Every case is unique,” Nolan stated, emphasizing the individualized nature of eating disorders. He described how an early obsession with fitness developed into anorexia, taking a “sinister toll” on his life as he became increasingly preoccupied with his diet. He now speaks openly about his experiences, hoping to help others recognize the signs and seek help.
Bodywhys reported providing support to over 5,200 individuals affected by eating disorders in 2025 through its free and confidential services, including a helpline, email support, chat, and video-based support groups. The organization’s Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2023 theme focused on “Breaking the Stigma: Diverse Male Experiences with Eating Disorders and Body Image,” highlighting the often-overlooked struggles faced by boys and men.
This year’s awareness week includes webinars and events designed to educate families, carers, and the wider community. A webinar on February 27th addressed “Learning from the diversity of family experiences,” featuring Harriet Parsons and Dr. Colman Noctor. Another event on February 28th, “Body Image: A Male Perspective,” featured Barry Hennessy, a Limerick hurler, alongside Nolan and Maeve O’Keeffe of the Bodywhys Youth Panel.
Several locations across Ireland are demonstrating their support by illuminating buildings in purple throughout the week, including Cavan Courthouse. Nolan expressed his satisfaction with the growing awareness surrounding eating disorders, calling it a “welcome development.”
Nolan’s story was recently featured on iRadio, where he discussed his book, “Normal,” and his operate promoting mental wellbeing and challenging comparison culture in schools. He emphasized the importance of open conversations about mental health and body image.
