What up Bruh! If you are a man with an eating disorder and you are reading this, you are not alone. No really, 10 million of us actually. Most likely at some point I was over exercising next to you at the gym, or I was in line behind you at the grocery store buying my binge foods. I may have even compared my body to yours due to my poor body image. You probably walked past me when I was morbidly obese. Perhaps what I’m saying is making someone feel uncomfortable. Sorry….”Trigger Warning. These issues may cause discomfort. Please read at your own discretion.
In the US, more than 8 million people identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual and 700,000 people identify as transgender. In this installment of the Parent, Family and Friends Network Webinar Series, eating disorder specialists and advocates explain eating disorders among the LGBTQ Community. Presenters Chase Bannister, Troy Roness and Ryan Sallans explain misconceptions on the issue, as well stereotypical social norms, and discrimination felt towards people with eating disorders.
The first thing you notice about up-and-coming filmmaker Tchaiko Omawale is her vibrant blue hair; the second thing you notice, much like her hair, is the infectious yet subtle smile spread across her face. When she speaks, she pulls you, as if she is an old childhood friend who helped you navigate your first awkward crush.
The first ever World Eating Disorder Action Day was held June 2nd, 2016 as a part of a global activist movement to raise awareness of eating disorders. This campaign was developed by a diverse group of activists representing affected individuals, parents/caregivers and professionals in the eating disorders field. Leading the efforts was a steering committee of 15 individuals from across the world, including NEDA’s own Yasemin Merwede!
In honor of World Eating Disorders Action Day, NEDA is hosting a Twitter chat to explore the relationship between body shaming, bullying and eating disorders. Join us Thursday, June 2nd at 1PM ET and follow #WeDoAct.
Body Shaming, Bullying and Eating Disorders
The Senate is getting ready to vote on the Mental Health Reform Act of 2016, which could have a large impact on the eating disorders community. The bill aims to expand access to mental health services, including eating disorders treatment.
As my college-aged daughter was landing on the tarmac after ED treatment away from home, I stood at the stove feeling apprehensive about the sour cream I was stirring into the chicken paprikash and the homemade macaroni and cheese that was baking in the oven. My mind buzzed with all the concerns she could potentially raise, and I felt keenly aware of the return of mealtime anxiety.
June 2nd, 2016 will mark the very first World Eating Disorders Action Day. While different countries and organizations have long had awareness weeks (such as NEDAwareness week and the Canadian Eating Disorders Awareness Week), this is the first time eating disorders are getting global attention. In fact, the whole day has been developed by grassroots advocacy efforts of over 150 organizations in over 40 countries.
This Mother’s Day, we want to thank all the wonderful mothers (and mother figures) for their unconditional love and support when caring for a loved one with an eating disorder.
