**Trigger Warning: This article discusses eating disorders**
Did you know that at least 30 million people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder in the U.S. alone? Eating Disorders Awareness Week is February 26 to March 3. This year, NEDA is asking everyone to “Get in the Know.” Here are some key facts and quotes at the end to support treating eating disorders and spread awareness for Eating Disorders Awareness Week. (Anad.org & Eatingrecoverycenter.com)
Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW) is an annual campaign to educate the public about the realities of eating disorders and to provide support and visibility to all individuals affected by eating disorders. Even if you haven’t struggled with an eating disorder yourself, the odds are you know someone who is around you. (Nationaleatingdisorders.org)
If you are asking yourself right now what are eating disorders? Eating disorders are complex mental and physical health conditions that affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. Experts believe that eating disorders are caused by a variety of factors such as genetics, personality traits, and perceived pressures to be thin caused by media and cultural preferences. (Nationaleatingdisorders.org)
The 3 most common types of eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and Bulimia. While those types are the most well-known eating disorders, people also struggle with Orthorexia, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Pica, Rumination disorder, laxative abuse, and compulsive exercise.
Here are some of the most common signs of having an eating disorder:
– Behaviors and attitudes that indicate that weight loss, dieting, and control of food are becoming primary concerns
– Refusal to eat certain foods
– Appears uncomfortable eating around others
– Extreme concern with body size and shape
– Withdrawal from usual friends and activities
– Skipping meals or taking small portions of food at regular meals
– Frequent dieting
– Noticeable fluctuations in weight, both up and down
– Stomach cramps or other non-specific gastrointestinal complaints
– Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
(Anad.org)
Here are some tips for discussing eating disorders:
– Choose a time when you can speak to the person in private
– Explain why you are concerned for them
– Be prepared for denial and or resistance
– Be very patient and supportive
– Make it clear that you care for their mental and physical health, that you love them, and that you will be there in whatever way they need and whenever they need
– Try your best to avoid lecturing or criticizing, or any kind of shaming or blaming
(Anad.org)
Food for recovery is, yes, a very very significant part of recovery but also learning how to listen to your body is a crucial and key component as well. This will help develop a healthy relationship with all types of food. Recovery is a journey of self-discovery, it is about reconnecting with your ambitions, traits, purpose and values. Recovery is a long and slow process so do not rush yourself if you are feeling defeated because any step toward recovery is still a step. Recovery is one of the hardest mountains to conquer that someone will face in life and if you or someone you know is going through recovery remind yourselves or them that they are doing a great AMAZING job! And in case no one has told you recently, you are doing such an awesome job, and I am so proud of all of you!!!
Here are some positive affirmations that may help if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder or body image issues:
“I intend to accept my body today, love my body tomorrow, and appreciate my body always.”
“On the tough days, you are still magical.”
“Clothes are meant to fit us; we are not meant to fit into our clothes.”
“I won’t let a number on a scale own me.”
“And I said to my body softly, ‘I want to be your friend.’ It took a long breath and replied, ‘I have been waiting my whole life for this.’”
“The size of our body has nothing to do with your worth. Nothing.”
“Beauty starts in your head, not in the mirror.”
“I’d rather be strong and happy than be what society thinks is thin and perfect and be miserable.”
“She began to measure herself in contentment and laughter rather than inches and pounds.”
“Don’t let the fear of relapsing keep you from recovering.”
“Stop hating yourself for everything you aren’t. Start loving yourself for everything you are.”
If you or anyone you know needs help it is here:
Contact National Alliance for Eating Disorders Helpline (866) 662-1235
If in crisis, call or text Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988
All statistics and advice come from:
www.Anad.org
www.Eatingrecoverycenter.com www.Nationaleatingdisorders.org