February 28th to March 6th is Eating Disorders Awareness Week which is a time to raise awareness of eating disorders and those who have lived through the experience. A 2007 study published in Biological Psychiatry, found that 0.9% of women and 0.3% of men had anorexia during their life, 1.5% of women and 0.5% of men had bulimia during their life, and 3.5% of women and 2.0% of men had binge eating disorder during their life.
The consequences of eating disorders can be life-threatening and the stigma often associated with these disorders can impede timely diagnosis and treatment.
This week is meant to provide hope and support to the individuals and families who have been affected by eating disorders. Shining a light on the realities of eating disorders and making way for more visibility of these voices can pave the way for change.
It’s important to challenge the myths and stereotypes connected to eating disorders as well as being aware of the risk factors for developing an eating disorder, including family history, cultural ideals of thinness, perfectionism and depression or anxiety.
We can learn more about eating disorders by watching videos, reading books, and listening to stories of those who have struggled.
Having these challenging conversations about eating disorder awareness and prevention with family, friends, and peers can help us all explore the importance of self-compassion and self-esteem.
Ideas for self compassion include meditation, mindfulness, gratitude, mirror work, finding joy and asking for help
We can take time to think about body image and how we can promote more kindness to others and ourselves.
You can check out these additional resources below to learn more:
