Our generation has grown up feeling obligated to live up to society and the media’s expectations of the definition of beautiful. Although each of us possesses our own unique beauty, these expectations take a toll on us. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, 30 million Americans suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their life.
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAwareness Week) is a movement towards educating individuals, friends, family and communities about eating disorders and the strong effect it has on the struggling individuals. NEDAwareness Week is filled with various volunteers, from health care providers to students, who attempt to raise awareness about eating disorders, and to provide accurate information about the different kinds of eating disorders.
This year’s campaign theme was “I Had No Idea.” The slogan drives people to recognize that not everyone understands the impact an eating disorder has on an individual. The more you know about eating disorders, the more you’ll be able to help and support those who go through it.
Last year, 100% of U.S. states hosted NEDAwareness Week events and activities. This year, Illinois State University hosted its own NEDAwareness Week events such as The Body Project held on Feb. 11 and Feb. 18 facilitated by the Student Wellness Ambassador Team, and the Be-You(tiful) Art Show, an art exhibit that features contributions from students attending ISU, Illinois Wesleyan, Heartland Community College and Lincoln College, showcases the cultural norms of beauty. The exhibit runs from Feb. 25 – Mar. 13 at University Galleries, located in the Center for Visual Arts building on ISU’s campus. On Feb. 27, Michael Feldman will present a one-man show that showcases the effects eating disorders—including anorexia, compulsive exercise and steroid use—can have on young men.
Getting involved in National Eating Disorder Awareness Week is pretty awesome. Raising awareness for a serious cause supports individuals who go through a hard time. Being able to help those in need by simply talking to or informing them can make a huge difference in their life.
If you or anyone you know need help, feel free to call NEDA’s toll-free, confidential helpline. Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (EST) (800) 931-2237 Or feel free to email them too! info@nationaleatingdisorders.org
If they’re unavailable, please know you can always call Student Counseling Services at (309) 438-3655