The 22nd-28th of February is Eating Disorder Awareness week.
This is an important focus for anyone who’s been directly – or indirectly – touched by an eating disorder; and, for those who spend the remainder of the year campaigning, tirelessly, to change the misconceptions and put a few constraints on the terrifying spread.
There have been, therefore, some stories on the news; and some articles in magazines; and a scurry of activity, online, amongst the organisations and individuals out there who want to make a difference.
There are conferences going on; and new campaigns being started; and I have selected my five favourite recovery posts to highlight that it is possible –
Only it feels, slightly, like we’re talking to the converted; and, I’m not sure how the message will reach the many people who, without meaning to offend, can’t quite see the relevance…
Because anorexia’s a fad – or a fashion – or that thing that models get; cured by three good meals and a bit of common sense.
Bulimia’s “not something I can really relate to” – or gross – or great for getting your cake and eating it; but an illness? – no, and part of polite conversation – not really, thank you.
And EDNOS. What the hell are they?
I can see their point. If you’re not female, aged between 12 and 18, typically middle class and probably white – or have a daughter within this group – what’s the problem?
This.
According to statistics, eating disorders are on the up. They’re starting younger – and hitting people later.
Contrary to popular belief, they don’t mind if you’re male; and, aren’t confined to class – or country – or wealth – or race.
They’re wrapped up with food – but that’s just one dimension; the causes are complex and hard to pin down.
They’ll stay for a while – or cling on for a lifetime; at the least they’ll do damage; at the worst, they’ll cause death.
At the least they’ll do damage; at the worst, they’ll cause death.
Fortunately, part of raising awareness of eating disorders is about raising awareness of recovery from eating disorders, and making sure that people are aware of the help that’s out there and the fact that, despite how it feels, recovery is possible.
This is why we need to get the message out there; and reach the initiated – and the uninitiated; because, there’s a chance that we can reverse the trend – and limit the damage – and maybe even save a few lives, if we’re aware of what we’re dealing with and we’re working together towards the same end.
For help and support, visit the Getting Help pages.
Tags: help, recovery, Stigma, Treatment
Hi – I would like to say thanks for an interesting post about a subject I have had an interest in for a long time now. I have been lurking and reading the posts avidly so just wanted to express my thanks for providing me with some very good reading material. I look forward to more, and taking a more proactive part in the discussions here, whilst learning too!!