The annual Eating Disorder Awareness Week takes place Feb. 24 through Mar. 2, a honorific seven-days spent recognizing the psychological condition that stigmatizes a person’s relationship with food. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, 9% of the United States population will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. To put that in perspective, that is 28.8 million North American lives put in jeopardy.
There is no “one size fits all” approach to eating disorders as they are complex illnesses that do not discriminate on age, gender, race, or body-size. Actualizing itself in different forms, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are all prototypes that fall under but are not limited to the eating disorder umbrella. Sudden extreme weight-loss, noticeably low energy levels, and excessive mental occupation of food guilt are examples of red flags that someone could be battling an eating disorder, but they don’t have to fight alone.
When speaking to a loved one over possible concerns about their eating habits, it is essential to approach with a plan. Choosing a safe but private setting to discuss will encourage a peaceful environment, preventing catching them off guard. Alarming the person you are speaking to will only raise tensions causing a decrease in overall rates of comprehension. While the main concern is around their eating disorder tendencies, limit the usage of words relating to weight, food-intake, and body size. This may seem contradictory, but mentioning similar topics could trigger possible feelings of anxiety and end up doing more harm than good.
Instead, utilize “I” statements: “When we are together I am beginning to notice you seem more fatigued than usual, how can I support you?” or “It is alright to feel distressed, I am here for you.” This approach further validates that their struggle is valid, and that you are going to be there to support them through the flames.
Once you have an open understanding of their personal needs, offer to assist them in locating professional support if they are susceptible. It is reasonable to want to “save” your loved one yourself, but you are not a superhero. Rather, having doctorate professionals such as eating disorders specializing therapists and dieticians come into action will have the highest turnout rates for recovery. What you can be is a guiding light—continue to remind the person you care by consistently checking up on them.
If you are struggling, there is help waiting and ready to walk you through the steps of recovery. Organizations such as NEDA (National Eating Disorder Association) and Alliance for Eating Disorders both offer 24 hour national hotlines and assistance to help locate eating disorder specialized treatment that falls under most insurance coverages.
Allyson Garcia, the Millikan Cafeteria head supervisor strives to establish a safe-space for anyone self-conscious over their food intake, “I want students to know that you are welcome here and are not judged whatsoever. We will always be happy to serve and provide a place to eat guilt-free.”
Healing is not linear; developing an eating disorder does not happen overnight, nor does overcoming one. At times it may feel loud, or even impossible—but to leave you with one thing that is proven, recovery is possible.
