“Come as You Are” During National Eating Disorder Awareness Week

Did you know that about 30 million Americans will experience an eating disorder sometime in their life? There is a negative stigma that goes along with eating disorders, which can prevent people who suffer from these disorders from getting help.

February 24th-March 1st is National Eating Disorder Awareness Week. This week is dedicated to end the stigma associated with eating disorders and spread awareness so those that are affected can get the help they need.

Every year the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) dedicates a week and highlights a specific theme around eating disorders to help raise awareness. This year’s theme is “Come as You Are: Hindsight is 20/20.” The main goal is for people to accept themselves and others regardless of their body type, race, gender, religion, stage of body acceptance and eating disorder recovery. All your stories deserve to be heard.

Types of Eating Disorders

There are various types of eating disorders, most of which you cannot tell based on appearance. That is why becoming educated on these various disorders is essential to recognizing warning signs Some common types of eating disorders include:

• Anorexia Nervosa: a distorted self-image, where you see a negative, usually larger version of yourself staring back at you in the mirror. People with anorexia stop fueling their bodies to the point of starvation.

• Bulimia Nervosa: characterized by binging and purging by self-induced vomiting or laxatives.

• Binge Eating Disorder: frequent and recurring consumption of a large amount of food in a small amount of time.

• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (AFRID): eating and food disturbances such as avoiding certain foods based on texture, a lack of interest in food or eating, or showing anxiety when presented with foods they “fear”.

• Orthorexia: an obsession with healthy eating, usually characterized by cutting out several food groups, such as carbohydrates with the intent of only putting “healthy” things in the body.

Positive Benefits of Recovery

Most people don’t associate positive thoughts or feelings when talking about eating disorders, especially when an eating disorder has been newly diagnosed. However, ask anyone who’s recovered from an eating disorder about their journey, and you’d be surprised to learn the positive things they share. While the journey to recovery may be long and hard, it will be worth it. You are worth it.

10 Ways Recovery Can Help You Grow into a Stronger, More Confident and Braver Self

1. Improved body image
2. Establish and respect for personal boundaries
3. Confidence in thoughts, actions, and beliefs
4. Development of healthy coping skills
5. Stronger relationships with family and friends
6. Increased empathy and understanding for others
7. Learning to honor hunger and fullness cues
8. Making peace with food
9. Genuinely appreciating the taste, flavor, and experience of food
10. Improved cognitive and creative thinking

Although it isn’t easy to tell if someone has an eating disorder, it’s a good idea to get educated and spread awareness. Remember that you don’t need a diagnosis to reach out for help. Try creating an open dialogue this week with your children, friends, parents, etc, to open the conversation about eating disorders and breaking past the stigmas. And remember to come as you are!

Your Turn to Take Action: If you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, know that recovery is possible and worth the journey. Learn more at www.NEDA.org

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