
Mel Nelson is a counsellor and therapeutic support worker for OMH partner SWEDA, a Somerset-based charity that supports people affected by eating disorders.
“I’ve been working with SWEDA for four years,” Mel says, “but I volunteered for them before that. While I was volunteering, I did my counselling diploma, as well.
“When I was younger, I had my own mental health problems, and I think that if they had been looked at earlier, things could have been different. That’s my inspiration: making sure people don’t go through the same sort of journey as I did.”
Mel’s journey has provided her with both personal and professional insight. She appreciates the combination of expertise gained through training and experience as it helps her to better understand and work for the charity. Mel strongly believes recovery from an eating disorder is possible.
A Day in the Life of a Therapeutic Support Worker
No two days are the same for Mel; her responsibilities are varied. She might take a potential client’s initial call, conduct assessments, provide support over the phone, or lead the “Daisy Project”—a program of twelve CBT sessions (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy). In addition to working with adults, Mel provides individual counselling for children, too, making her work especially diverse as she responds to different needs.
Mel believes it is important to meet clients where they are on their journey to recovery, and this requires a personalised approach. She tailors support to their individual challenges and goals: “I always see everyone as bespoke.”
Each month, Mel visits local colleges and offers students supportive check-ins. “During these sessions, I offer support rather than counselling, but I can help young people set goals or just have a chat about how they’re feeling.”
The Challenges of Living with an Eating Disorder
Living with an eating disorder, Mel explains, often involves intense feelings of shame, guilt, and self-doubt, which can make it difficult for people to seek help. Mel says the challenges people face are often increased by stereotypical portrayals in the media. Frequently, film and TV portray eating disorders from a narrow perspective: “We’re almost given this snapshot of what an eating disorder should look like or what an eating disorder is.”
This can lead people to feel that they don’t look “ill enough” or to assume their issues aren’t sufficiently severe to qualify as an eating disorder. It’s a misconception that creates barriers to accessing support and adds to the emotional burden of dealing with a condition that can be highly isolating.
Mel says the COVID-19 pandemic increased the demand for support at SWEDA, as isolation and stress exacerbated many eating disorders. When people feel alone and unsupported, symptoms can intensify.
Listening to Every Client’s Needs
Mel’s approach is integrative and client-led, as no single strategy works for everyone. “It’s very much listening to what the person needs, and those needs may look different in a year’s time, and that’s okay.” SWEDA’s person-centred approach combines advice, education, and counselling. Mel emphasises flexibility in allowing each client’s goals to guide the process.
SWEDA and OMH
Mel says SWEDA collaborates with other OMH partners to ensure clients get the most appropriate support. If a client’s needs exceed SWEDA’s focus, they refer to or consult with organisations in the alliance. “We work very closely to make sure that we get people the right help,” she explains, adding that SWEDA liaise with OMH partners dealing with crisis, trauma, and other specific mental health issues.
Reaching Out for the Support you Need
Mel suggests that while it’s important to reach out, it must be the right time for each person. She advises “gently planting the seed” for those who may not be ready yet and reassures them that “this is a choice. If you do reach out and don’t feel it’s right, that’s okay.” She encourages small, step-by-step approaches, allowing people to feel in control of their own journey to recovery.
If reading this has planted a seed of thought in your mind, give SWEDA a call when it’s time to let it grow. SWEDA and Open Mental Health offer a twice-weekly, free, impartial, and confidential helpline for people living with eating disorders and their families. The helpline is open every Sunday from 11 am until 2 pm and every Tuesday from 8 pm until 11 pm on 0300 330 5464.
Alternatively, for help and support to empower your recovery, contact SWEDA via their website or call OMH Mindline Somerset anytime, day or night, on 01823 276 892 or freephone 0800 138 1692.