The Only Way is Essex's Harry Derbidge has opened up about his experience of an eating disorder.
Harry, the cousin of fellow reality star Amy Childs, took to Instagram to reveal his battle to fans, telling them that he'd been battling the condition with the support of his friends and family.
'#transformation 💁🏼 ♂️ my journey with an eating disorder was a struggle and I know I'm not a muscle pump up pete now but where I am right now I have never felt and looked better in myself,' the 23-year-old wrote.
'The image on the left aged 16 I was 7 stone and very unhealthy and could go a day without eating, I also had a fear of food which can be diagnosed as a 'food phobia'. I had made my stomach so tiny that I could eat 2 bites of food and be full which was very unhealthy and made me very weak.'
Harry went on to explain that the second image was how he looks and feels today: 'I eat 3/4 meals a day and without my family and friends I could not have done it. My mum who is also my best friend was by my side and helped me overcome this and with months of making myself sick with the phobia of trying new foods I have now overcome the eating disorder and feel so amazing now when I eat and I feel stronger, healthy and happier in myself.'
'Eating disorder are not common in men, not because we don't have them but because many men choose not to talk about them and ignore it. I am here to say it is ok and without the help and love I had I would never feel as amazing as I do today and I want to help many people facing eating disorders and together we can kick it in the ass! 🙌🏼 Now all I need is a cute six pack 🙌🏼 #positivevibes #healthy #healthylifestyle #eatingdisorderrecovery #eatingdisorder #menshealth'
Harry pictured with cousin Amy Childs
Fans have been quick to praise Harry for his honesty about such a personal subject, with one saying: 'I'm so glad you got through it @mrharryderbidge it isn't easy to speak about. I've been there too and I still have bad moments where I don't feel like eating.'
'You look amazing Harry. It's so kind of you to share your story and will undoubtedly help so many other male sufferers to seek help,' another agreed. 'Wishing you lots of health and happiness.'
