National Eating Disorder Awareness Week
A big thanks to the loved ones who support those struggling and a call to action for others who haven’t started yet.
Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW) “is an annual campaign to educate the public about the realities of eating disorders and to provide hope and visibility to individuals and loved ones impacted by eating disorders.” As a sport psychologist specializing in eating disorder treatment, I see this week as a crucial opportunity for education, advocacy, and, most importantly, support. As EDAW begins, I want to express a heartfelt thank you to everyone who dedicates their time, energy, and resources to supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. And, for those who haven't yet joined this important fight, I invite you to step into this necessary role.
As an eating disorder therapist, I have the privilege of witnessing the bravery and vulnerability of those in eating disorder recovery. My clients and others in recovery confront deeply uncomfortable feelings, unlearn harmful messaging from childhood, and make incredibly difficult behavioral changes. (Perspective exercise: Remember that New Year’s Resolution you set out for or what you gave up for lent? How hard was that? Did you stick to it the whole time?) Making change is HARD and these resilient individuals are making changes that are, at times, life or death. So they don’t get the options to just “try again next year.” They are consistently engaged in this difficult work.
So, a huge shout-out to all the supporters walking this journey with them. Doing something hard and scary becomes much more manageable when we have the right support, so THANK YOU for offering your unwavering love and support. Your dedication makes a real difference in the lives of those struggling with eating disorders.
Just as good support can help a client, a lack of support, opposition, or criticism can seriously hinder and damage an individual’s recovery progress. Whether you are a parent, spouse/partner, sibling, friend, teacher, or coach, your words MATTER. My client only get’s 1 hour with me every week, and maybe another hour with a dietitian. That leaves 22 hours, 7 days a week, with YOU, the support system. Individuals can do all the hard work in therapy, but if they return to an unsupportive environment, their progress can be stalled or disproportionately slow compared to their efforts. (Think trying to climb a mountain without the right gear and an added weighted backpack).
If you find yourself being a part of the unsupportive environment, be gentle with yourself. Unsupportive environments can stem from various reasons including lack of education, stigma, and personal beliefs about food and weight. The good news is, regardless of the reason, there are practical ways to learn, grow, and hold yourself accountable. Trust me, I’ve done it myself!
Here are some ways you can start to revolutionize your thinking and support:
Educate yourself: Learn about the different types of eating disorders, their warning signs, and the resources available. Understanding the complexities of these illnesses is the first step towards providing meaningful support. The NEDA website (nationaleatingdisorders.org) and FEAST are fantastic resources. Beyond individual study, you can join FB Groups for Loved Ones in Eating Disorder treatment, join a support group, or take a class (often offered by local treatment centers in your areas).
Challenge stigma: Eating disorders are not a choice or a lifestyle. They are serious mental health conditions that require professional help. It is not helpful to tell someone in recovery to “just eat a cheeseburger,” or to “just go on a diet" when they are struggling in their relationship with food. Challenge your own misconceptions and promote respectful language.
Offer support: If you know someone who might be struggling, reach out. Let them know you care and that you're there for them. And I cannot stress this enough: LISTEN TO THEM, non-judgmentally, with an open mind, to support them in the way they need (not how you think they need). If appropriate and requested by your loved one and/or their treatment team, consider joining a therapy session to learn more about how you can support them specifically.
Practice self-care: Supporting someone with an eating disorder can be emotionally challenging. Remember to take care of yourself and seek support if you need it. Also, remind yourself that this learning process takes time, so do not get frustrated with yourself if you “don’t know everything” right away. Take it step by step with your loved one.
As National Eating Disorder Awareness Week begins, let's initiate the momentum forward to create a world where everyone struggling with an eating disorder feels seen, heard, and supported on their path to recovery. Let's move beyond awareness and into action. Let's offer hope where there is despair. Let's work together to make a lasting difference. Because recovery is possible, and no one should have to face it alone.