Eating Disorders are NOT Captured in B&A Photos
Today is day two of seven dedicated to raising awareness about eating disorders. I’m here for it.
And Eating Disorder Awareness Week is contentious for many of my clients. A lot of them have strong feelings of dislike for this week.
Generally, this is about the global oversimplification of eating disorders. It’s about stereotypes. And it’s also about the omnipresent pre-and-post photographs that might flood your social media feed.
The fact is, most people with eating disorders don’t “look” as though they have an eating disorder. (Because it’s not a look) Bodies may or may not change as one heals their relationship with food. There may be no appreciable visual shift at all.
And if you are someone who has struggled, or is in the process of recovery, or who has recovered into much the same body as the one you had before your eating disorder, know that you represent the norm. And if your body has changed dramatically in the process of healing, know that you are welcome here, too.
The purpose of this week is to raise awareness. Of the most lethal of all mental illnesses. This is worthy of a week of dedicated effort. It is quite literally the least that we can do.
And if you get caught in a comparison trap, consider ducking out. Maybe skip searching for the pre/post photos. Consider protecting yourself first.
I am going to post about eating disorder awareness week, because I want to raise awareness, but am with you in being aware of these conditions, everyday.
Be gentle with yourselves and know that
YOUR STORY MATTERS.
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