National Eating Disorder and Screening Week

Eating disorders are serious illnesses that affect thousands of Americans of all genders, sexual orientations, races, ages, and backgrounds, but often it is an illness that can hide in plain sight.

Which is why this year’s National Eating Disorder and Screening Awareness week has chosen “It’s Time to Talk About It” as their theme, in hopes of shining a light on issues surrounding food and body image.

The most common and severe eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and body dysmorphia. Triggers and risk factors can vary from social pressure and low self-esteem, to psychological issues like depression and anxiety. Often these illnesses can escalate without loved ones noticing right away, which is why it’s so important to raise awareness.

It is estimated that 30 million Americans struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lives. Although there are some higher risk demographics, like girls aged 10–13, who are particularly vulnerable to social and cultural pressure towards thin body standards, it’s important to remember that these illnesses can affect anyone, at anytime in their life.

The National Eating Disorder Association has information on how to spot early symptoms, which can manifest both physically and emotionally. They also provide screening for risk factors, resources for those suffering from any of these illnesses, as well as specific sections for parents, family, and friends to spot warning signs, and how to support a loved one once a diagnosis has been made. If you or a loved one is suffering from any physical or emotional distress around diet, exercise, or body image in general, don’t wait until it’s too late — the time to talk about it is now.

Written by Olivia Murphy