Feasibility study for a minimum viable product of an app for primary and secondary prevention of eating disorders through family-based pro-active self-care.

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Over 1.25 million people in the UK are directly affected by an eating disorder at any one time. These have the highest mortality rate of all mental health conditions, and those who survive suffer a significant impact on their education and employment. Although eating disorders can develop at any age, the risk is highest for young men and women between 13 and 17 years of age. The number of admissions to hospital with a diagnosis of an eating disorder has almost doubled over the past six years and the consequent pressure on in-patient services too often entails the sufferer being placed at some distance from home, which unfortunately reduces the opportunity for support by their family, who otherwise can play a key role in recovery.King's College Eating Disorders Research Group is a world leader in research into neurobiological, genetic and psychological causes and consequences of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and other eating disorders, using that knowledge to develop new and better treatments. Their research has demonstrated that: _"targeted family-based interventions, aimed at mobilising the family's own resources, are an effective alternative to inpatient treatment for younger people."_Therefore, in consultation with King's College Eating Disorders Research Group, we are exploring the feasibility of developing a unique and innovative app which will digitally provide young people and their families with information, insight tools and therapeutic activities, in order to facilitate family-based pro-active self-care for those at risk of an eating disorder. This primary and secondary prevention will reduce the likelihood of a future need for NHS services.