A Clinician's Perspective of Severe and Enduring Eating Disorders and Palliative Care with Consultant Psychiatrist, Dr David Coyle
This week, Han is joined by David Coyle. David is a Consultant Psychiatrist, and the Clinical Lead for Adult Eating Disorder Services across multiple Trusts in Northern Ireland. With a career spanning 18 years in mental health and 7 years specialising in eating disorders, David is dedicated to his clinical work, especially where he can be creative and innovative. He is also passionate about teaching and provides training for various regional healthcare disciplines. One of his notable interests is exploring the treatment options available for severe and complex eating disorders.
This week, Han and David discuss:
- David's journey as a consultant psychiatrist and how he began working in eating disorders.
- David's perspective on using diagnostic labels and the importance of accessing treatment.
- The importance of getting to know a patient and their difficulties to provide adequate recovery treatment.
- The need for weight restoration in recovery as well as the uncertainty this can bring in recovery.
- David's perspective on the descriptor "Severe and Enduring Eating Disorder" and when this may be supportive for patients.
- David's perspective on the Mental Health Act and when it may be appropriate to detain a patient or not.
- David's experience of supporting a patient with palliative care and the reasons for when this may be necessary.
- How to determine if a patient has the capacity to decide on palliative care. Kindly note, that this episode delves into sensitive eating disorder topics such as the Mental Health Act and palliative care. Remember to take care of yourself while listening, and always seek professional help if needed. This podcast is your bridge to insightful discussions, not a substitute for clinical guidance.
Recent Posts
The UK’s Assisted Dying Bill raises serious concerns for individuals with eating disorders. Could they qualify as terminally ill? Explore the risks, safeguarding gaps, and why better treatment, not assisted death, is needed.
Reclaiming Women's Health by Breaking Myths Around PCOS & Eating Disorders
In this week's episode, Han is joined by Julie White. Julie is a Mental Health First Aid Instructor, Neurodiversity Coach, and peer support facilitator, raising awareness of mental health and neurodiversity.
In this week's episode, Han is joined by Bethany Ashley Smith. Bethany is a psychotherapist who is on a to help people feel more confident and independent in their healing journey. Bethany has spent 20 years combining her own lived experiences, working as a mental health nurse and her professional expertise in trauma, addiction, ADHD, and relationships. As a neurodiverse, mixed-race woman who’s walked her own recovery path, Bethany brings empathy and understanding to her work.
In this week's episode, we speak with eating disorder advocate, Nicky Smith, about report released by The All-Party Parliamentary Group, “The Right To Health: People with eating disorders failed”.
In this week's episode, Han is joined by Zuzanna Gajowiec. Zuzanna is a Clinical Psychologist, Family Therapist, and Ireland’s first Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Consultant (CEDS-C). With over a decade of experience, Zuzanna is dedicated to supporting individuals and families on their journey to recovery, focusing on physical healing, body image, and family connections.
Subscribe to our
Newsletter
Subscribe to the Full of Beans Newsletter!
- Stay in the loop with the latest in eating disorder awareness, research, and recovery insights.
- Get exclusive updates on podcast episodes, guest features, and expert perspectives—all in a digestible, no-fluff format.
- Whether you're a professional, advocate, or just curious, we've got you covered.
Join the Newsletter
