The specialist outpatient clinic for addiction prevention and rehabilitation of the Caritas Association Bremen e. V. offers the first counseling center in Bremen specifically focused on eating disorders. The service is funded by the German Television Lottery for three years – with a total of more than €255,000.
Counseling for problematic eating behavior
“We are pleased to be able to close this gap in care in Bremen. The number of girls aged 10 to 17 who received inpatient treatment for eating disorders doubled to 6,000 between 2003 and 2023,” says Eileen Teuber, head of the specialist outpatient clinic.
Young women are particularly affected
"According to the Federal Statistical Office, this age group now accounts for almost half of all those affected (93 percent are women). Up to 18 percent of young women are affected by eating disorders into early adulthood." Key disorders include anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.
Threatening psychological and physical consequences
The consequences are alarming. According to Destatis, in 2023, eating disorders were the direct cause of death in 78 cases. They often result in circulatory problems, hormonal dysregulation, osteoporosis, hair loss, and organ damage. Mental health conditions such as depression are also common.
"The access is deliberately low-threshold, because not every problematic eating behavior is pathological. Our goals are education, counseling and, if necessary, referral to further services," says addiction counselor Maartje Pollemans.
Free and confidential offer
"We advise young people and adults as well as their relatives – in person or online. And we are networked with specialist agencies and therapy facilities to find the best path for each individual. Events are also planned – including for schools and other multipliers."
The service is free and confidential and offers advice to the following people:
- Individual counselling : Young people (from age 14) and adults – anonymous, in person or online
- Advice for family members, friends, educators and other caregivers : if you are worried about someone
- Networking with other specialist agencies in Bremen : We have contacts with specialized agencies and can support you in finding a suitable therapy.
- Self-help group : Exchange and support for relatives
- Information and events : for those affected, schools, associations and multipliers
More information at www.caritas-bremen.de/suchtberatung .
Source: Caritas Association Bremen e. V., Press Release , 10/2025