Champion rower Daniel Collins spoke at an event organised by the Western Health and Social Care Trust during Eating Disorder Awareness Week, from February 23 to March 1, 2026. The event in Derry highlighted his personal recovery from an eating disorder and aimed to raise awareness of related difficulties.

Collins described a cycle of starving himself, excessive cardio, bingeing, and body dysmorphia, which stemmed from childhood mockery and stigma around male eating disorders. He engaged with the Western Trust's Eating Disorder Service, receiving psychological, dietetic, and occupational therapy, along with guidance on nutrition and behaviour patterns.

Recovery involved relapses, including during COVID-19, but Collins reapplied the service's tools, incorporated strength training, and adjusted his eating habits. He now competes in national and international rowing, holding indoor championship gold and silver medals.

The Adult Eating Disorder Service treats individuals aged 18-65, while under-18s receive care through Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services. Jenny Doran, Team Manager, urged those affected to contact their GP or mental health practitioner for referral.

Coinciding with the week, the Managed Care Network for Eating Disorders in Northern Ireland launched a Strategic Framework and Three Year Implementation Plan, marking 20 years of regional service provision across mental health services and community sectors.