In light of ANAD awareness week being recently, I was inspired to write this article in hopes to spread more consciousness of Anorexia Nervosa and other related eating disorders and how they're treated in our society. Eating disorders are more common than you may think.
Like all mental disorders you cannot have “had” an eating disorder, but it is something you have. An eating disorder is a constant and daily struggle. It doesn’t ever go away, neither do the urges to act upon it. Overcoming an eating disorder means control. Control of yourself and your actions. For some living with an eating disorder, this is the hardest part of their day. Everyone should be aware just how much eating disorders effect people. I think in our society we are so quick to write off or misjudge those who struggle with them. Understanding just how much strength, bravery, and support it takes to overcome such a large obstacle is the first step for us to help the person become healthier.
All eating disorders not only affect your body negatively, but your self-image as well. If you know someone or have personally dealt with an eating disorder then you know how dark of a place it can be. You are constantly pin pointing flaws and aspects of yourself that you can fix through counting calories, purging, and even starving yourself. But what people don’t see is their beautiful souls, brains, kind heart, or their wonderful character, which is what really matters.
There is so much I wish I could say to the men and women I know who have passed from an eating disorder related problem. Most of all, I wish I could have supported them and been there to tell them why they were beautiful, to help them through their journey of getting stronger and healthier.
Strength comes from constant support and aiding in an active recovery. If you know anyone or you yourself who is struggling with an eating disorder, please speak up. Your voice could change their life, remember that. If there is anything you take from this, please take this next sentence. Watch what you say and who you say it too because you never know what someone could be struggling with. And remember that you are always beautiful.
