Gooooooood morning everyone!
I’ve got a busy day ahead so I’m popping in quickly to talk about a topic that you all know is very close to my heart.
First, work. Then my midterm for my class. THEN I’m off to visit the bf woohoooo!
Thank you to Amanda from Running with Spoons for allowing me to share my random thoughts of the week.
Did you know today is World Eating Disorders Action Day?
I didn’t.
Big shout out to my friend who shared this photo on Facebook the other day. I’m glad I found out it was today! Apparently it’s the first one!
My initial reactions when hearing about this were:
– What is the day exactly?
– Who’s behind it all?
– How can I spread this message to others?
So that’s what I’ll be talking about to you today!
The picture above could not be more true.
You don’t know a person’s health issues just by looking at them…hence Truth #1. I did a pretty good job of hiding it!
Let’s talk about those questions though.
(Roughly adapted from their website).
So, what is “World Eating Disorders Day”?
A virtual union of those present in the eating disorder community to increase access to the proper information, put an end to myths, and collectively advocate for resources and policy change to others around the world about eating disorders. Also, to recognize eating disorders as serious, treatable illnesses.
Who started it all?
A whole bunch of people! I’m talking over 200 organizations and thousands of activists from all over the world. They’re called the Steering Committee, and their job is to guide activities and processes for World Eating Disorder Day and links other activists to many participating organizations. You can read more about them HERE.
How is the message spread? What can I do?
First of all, you can take the pledge to commit to breaking down the stigma of eating disorders and share the Nine Truths About Eating Disorders with others. The overall goal is to advance the understanding of eating disorders as “treatable genetically-linked illnesses” and raise awareness to allocate resources and establish actions for change.
Finally, there is now ONE DAY across the globe to raise awareness about eating disorders, get rid of myths, and “change the face of eating disorders”. By embracing the diversity of the groups who are affected and unite activists on a shared platform across the globe, we as a community can accomplish this.
Now, take a minute and a half and watch the video about the Nine Truths below.
Why is this day important to me?
As someone who has recovered from an eating disorder, it is my GOAL to help others avoid the terrible clutches of a disorder and its lasting effects on the mind and body. Loving yourself is the first step, and I want to be able to help others struggling with body image to love themselves more fully and completely. I want women to feel confident in their own skin no matter what society preaches about size. I want them to feel strong and healthy. I WANT TO BE THE CHANGE.
I know it sounds cliche, but I feel so strongly about this issue and I’m tired of the ways that society breaks down people because of their health or body size. I did an entire research project on this kind of thing last year.
These kinds of days remind me of those who may have lost their battle with an ED and didn’t get the chance for change.
Be the change. Be a voice for others. Take action.
*NOTE: I am not a licensed nutritionist or therapist. If you or someone you know is in serious need of medical help due to an eating disorder, please follow this link for the appropriate resources.*
Now tell me…
- Have you ever struggled with body image?
- What’s one thing you love about yourself?
Be well everyone.❤
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