Eating disorders are not just about chicken breast and broccoli. Contrary to mainstream media portrayals that equate underweight bodies with disordered eating and glamorize ED struggles as embodiments of “discipline,” everyone struggling with an ED has a unique and complex story. This week (Feb. 24-March 2) marks Eating Disorders Awareness Week, and it’s time to break the silence about this growing health crisis.
What are eating disorders?
The National Eating Disorders Association defines EDs as “serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes and weights.” EDs are often caused by underlying biological, psychosocial and environmental factors, including family history, cultural and sport-related body standards, diet culture and the media. Those with preexisting mental health struggles such as low self-esteem, obsessive thinking, perfectionist tendencies or a strong desire for control are also vulnerable to developing unhealthy coping strategies, which can influence their relationship with food. Thus, EDs are often diagnosed alongside other mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Although anorexia nervosa (focused on maintaining a low weight) and binge eating disorder (chronic, compulsive overeating) are the most well-known EDs, the most common types are Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (disordered eating behaviors that do not meet the diagnostic criteria for other specific disorders). Other types of EDs include Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (extreme food selectivity) and orthorexia (obsession with “healthy” eating). The symptoms for each of these conditions vary but nonetheless have devastating impacts on the mental and physical health of those affected.
“As a mental condition, eating disorders are the only disorders that you can die from unintentionally,” mental health specialist Gina Cross said. “It can change the electrolyte composition in your body, erode and decay your teeth and organs, cause hair to fall out, affect women’s menstrual cycle, seriously damage heart muscle, make you more irritable and impair your sleep.”
Given the plethora of possible causes, diagnoses and personal situations, we are unable to speak for the 9% of Americans—that’s 28.8 million people—estimated to struggle with ED in their lifetime by the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. Recovery looks different for everyone, and navigating it is a marathon—not a sprint—that takes courage, time and energy.
How can you support a friend through ED recovery?
Without adequate support from friends and trusted adults, recovery can feel extremely overwhelming. Here are a few ways you can help support a friend through recovery and prevent relapse.
Avoid triggering language: Even when used as a joke, hearing phrases like “fatties,” “big backs” and “diet starts tomorrow” can make those recovering from EDs feel ashamed for “allowing” themselves to recover and make spontaneous decisions about what, when and how much to eat. Additionally, refrain from making comments such as “I feel so fat/skinny.” These are not feelings, and even if not said directly to someone living with an ED, merely hearing these comments may reinforce self-consciousness as many people living with EDs already think about their body shape and weight far more than the average person.
Do not comment on others’ food choices: Words like “diet starts tomorrow” or “this food is going to give me [insert chronic disease]” criminalize eating even though food is fuel, culture, connection and memories. Unless there is a documented medical reason, consuming delicious foods rarely warrants restriction. While certain foods may provide more nutrients than others, no food should be labeled as “good” or “bad.”
Communicate that their struggles do not determine their worth: If someone opens up about their struggles, acknowledge that you do not and cannot understand the gravity of the situation but will be there to support them. When you have the chance to chat one-on-one, ask them how they’re feeling—both about recovery and their life in general. Remind them that resting is not a waste of time, and celebrate their milestones with them.
Don’t let their struggles become your responsibility: You can only support others if you’ve taken care of your needs first. Give each other grace because talking through misunderstandings will allow you to build trust.
How can you reach out for support?
If you or someone you know may be struggling with an ED or other mental health conditions, use the Say Something Anonymous Reporting System or talk to a trusted adult, including teachers, mental health support staff and counselors. Additionally, the ANAD Eating Disorder Helpline is available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m PST at 1-888-375-7767.
“People think so often that something is wrong with them, and what’s going on is that you’re having a difficult time with some stressor in your life that’s manifesting as an eating disorder,” Cross said. “There’s no shame in that, and what we want to do is help you get the support that you need before disordered eating becomes too detrimental to your body.”
For those navigating EDs, you are not alone. Some days will be harder than others, but recovery is always worth it.
“Sometimes we get in a place where we’re like, ‘I don’t feel really hungry,’ or we’re concerned about our weight or body size,” mental health specialist Steve Lo said. “The important thing is being honest with yourself and recognizing that things can get worse if they’re not treated early on.”
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment regarding eating disorders. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions related to your health, particularly if you suspect you may have a medical condition requiring treatment. If immediate assistance is needed, call 911.
