Another common misconception of eating disorders is that they only affect a certain demographic. However, eating disorders do not discriminate. Individuals across all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and sizes can be impacted by this insidious disease. The stereotypes we associate with eating disorders are harmful and may be invalidating to individuals who are struggling in silence.
Diet culture and harmful narrative around body image can also cause eating disorders to lurk in the shadows. In many cases, individuals are unaware of the devastating impacts the eating disorder is taking on their physical, mental, and social wellbeing.
“We live in an environment that is constantly talking about body image and weight loss medications, often without regard for the irreparable damage this language can cause,” said Melissa Spann, PhD, MBA, CEDS-C, Chief Clinical Officer at Monte Nido. “We hope this campaign will spark conversations and empower those who are living with an eating disorder to ask for the help they need and deserve. Recovery is possible at any age with the right treatment and support.”