Center for Disability Resources (CDR) : ABLE SC, Eating Disorder Awareness Week

Friday, March 01, 2024

ABLE SC, Eating Disorder Awareness Week

National Eating Disorder Awareness Week

- February 26th to March 3rd

Screenshot of video of Mandy, a white woman with long blonde hair sitting in her office, hands clasped and looking pleasant.

An eating disorder is a psychiatric and physical condition that negatively impacts a person’s eating behaviors and overall health.

An eating disorder is not simply about physical appearance; it is a complicated psychiatric condition that impacts both mental and physical health. It disrupts one's relationship with food, often leading to severe health consequences if left unaddressed. Like other marginalized populations, the disability community struggles to find accessible and culturally competent treatment options from healthcare professionals.

What's crucial to understand is that eating disorders don't discriminate. They can affect individuals of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientations, and backgrounds. Moreover, those within the disabled community and individuals with co-occurring health conditions are at heightened risk.

Mandy's Video

Check out this video from our Director of Public Health and Disability Integration, Mandy Halloran, who shares personal experience with eating disorders.

For instance, individuals with physical disabilities may face body image concerns related to their condition, while those managing dietary or gastrointestinal issues may experience added stress. Unfortunately, accessibility to appropriate treatment can be a significant hurdle for marginalized communities, including the disabled population.

Able SC urges everyone to educate themselves about eating disorders and the diverse factors influencing their development. Let's confront the stigmas surrounding mental health and foster environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported.

Read one woman’s personal journey towards eating disorder recovery.

Statistics about Eating Disorders:

· Approximately 9% of individuals in the United States live with an eating disorder.

· Around 15% of women ages 40-50 live with an eating disorder yet only 27% of them seek treatment.

· While Black individuals and people of color are affected by eating disorders at similar rates to their white counterparts, the diagnosis rate within the BIPOC community is significantly lower.

· Members of the LGBTQ+ community face a higher risk of developing eating disorders, with LGBTQ+ youth being three times more likely to experience an eating disorder compared to their straight peers.

· Over 70% of individuals with eating disorders live with additional mental health conditions, most commonly anxiety and mood disorders.

Able SC invites you to elevate awareness, nurture empathy, and offer steadfast support to individuals living with eating disorders. We have the power to cultivate a world where everyone feels empowered to seek assistance and begin their path towards healing and recovery.

Helpful Resources:

· Office on Women’s Health: National Eating Disorder Awareness Month

· Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA)

· The Mayo Clinic, Eating disorder treatment: Know your options

· National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA)

· Teen Vogue, Disabled People Can Have Eating Disorders too

· Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment for Eating Disorders