awareness

For those who have not personally experienced an Eating Disorder it is hard to see it outside of vanity for what it is: a disease. Understandably so, many of the actions of the disease involve much of the clients own cognitive control. However, recent research is paving the way for Eating Disorders to be taken seriously as a genetic, mental disease. Which is a huge step in getting health insurance to cover the costs of treatment, more awareness programs for children and compassion for those suffering from the disease.

The New York Times is currently featuring a series online called, Patient Voices where they feature people suffering from a variety of mental disorders. You can hear all of their testimonies about the experience with their disease. Please take a listen to the Eating Disorder testimonies. There is a variety of men, women and teens who talk about their disease. Take a listen to their experience with their Eating Disorder here. Awareness, is the first step to finding a solution. We are so glad so many are stepping out and bringing awareness to this painful, deadly disease. 

A wider understanding of Eating Disorders has sky rocketed in recent years. Much of the credit goes to organizations like http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ They sponsor advertisements in magazines for recovery, they offer support for Eating Disorder sufferers and their parents AND they host the National Eating Disoarder Awareness week each Spring! Heck Yeah!

 This year all 50 of the United States and over 20 different countries came together and hosted speaking panels from Eating Disorder survivors, Fundraisers for treatment, Awareness booths on college campuses and Candle Light Vigils for those we have lost from this disease. Check out the pictures from the site by clicking here. It is truly inspiring to see people rallying together to work for change for all women! xoxo Irvina