RAD Conference Recap

*This blog was originally written on 21 Jan 2020, however, due to technical issues it somehow disappeared, so we're writing it again!*

I had the pleasure of presenting at RAD's Conference: Shaping Bodies Shaping Minds, in Melbourne in January 2020.

It was a great conference overall as there were deep and insightful discussion about the importance of mental health care for dancers and performing artists.

So here's a recap.

Our Presentation - we had the pleasure of working with Shane Jeffrey from River Oak Health (QLD) to present on the important topic of dance nutrition.

Dance Nutrition - Enhancing Performance, Positive Body Image and Lifelong Health for Dancers

Topics covered:

• Dance Nutrition Guidelines

• Nutritional issues experienced by dancers

• Eating Disorders - the basics; how to help; what can we do in class/studio to reduce the risk?

• Body Image issues in dancers

I was also thrilled to hear presentations from:

• Julia Barry (Dance Wellness Programs in Elite Ballet Schools)

• Carolyn Carattini (Psychological Skills in Ballet Training)

• Elena Lambrinos (Behaviours and Dispositions in RAD Ballet Class)

• Will Centurion (Dancers, Social Media and Anxiety)

• Aus Ballet School team: Philippa Zeigenhardt, Katrina Edwards and Simon Dow (Empowering Students toThrive)

The key theme that arose was how dancers and performing artists are more vulnerable to mental health issues; skills and strategies available to overcome this issue; but the lack of awareness of the issue and hence the lack of treatment availability.

Even in our presentation, which was more-than-full-capacity, it was obvious that dance teachers, educators and researchers were interested to understand more about eating disorders. It also highlighted how the struggle comes from uncertainty - when to seek help, where to seek help, and how to seek help.

Eating Disorder is not a choice.

Dancers possess characteristics which make them vulnerable - due to the psychological traits favoured in the dance world and the culture in the industry.

Just like we have more awareness and hence prevention practices for physical injuries in dance, we need to have more awareness and prevention practices for eating disorders and other mental health issues in dance.

It's SO IMPORTANT that dancers' health and wellbeing are prioritised before, during and after their dancing career.

That's why Dancers Don't Diet offers group education and policy development work for dance studios and schools. Because we know that as much as individual work is important, school- and industry-level changes are also vital.

We are at near-full capacity but we'll always do our best to ensure everyone is provided with help and support.

So don't hesitate to ask for help.

If we're physically not close to your place, we offer Zoom sessions for individuals, or we'll find a dietitian or psychologist near your area who can help you out.

This is a team effort and everyone's involved, including You and I.