In Honor of Eating Disorder Awareness Week
Eating disorders affect millions of people worldwide, yet they are often misunderstood, minimized, or even overlooked. That’s why Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW) is so important—it’s a time to shine a light on these serious mental health conditions, break the stigma, and remind those struggling that help is available and recovery is possible.
If you or someone you love is battling an eating disorder, please know that you are not alone. Healing is possible with the right support, and taking even one small step toward recovery is an act of self-care and strength. To honor EDAW, we’re sharing five key tips that can support you or a loved one on the path to healing.
1. Seek Professional Help
Recovery is not something you have to figure out on your own. Eating disorders are complex and often require specialized care from professionals like therapists, registered dietitians, and doctors who understand the physical and emotional challenges involved. If reaching out feels overwhelming, start small—schedule a brief consultation to explore your options. The first step is often the hardest, but it can also be the most life-changing.
2. Build a Support Network
Eating disorders thrive in secrecy, so opening up to trusted people can be incredibly healing. Whether it’s a family member, friend, therapist, or a support group, having a safe space to share your experiences can make a huge difference. Remember, you deserve support from people who uplift and encourage you—not those who judge or dismiss your struggles.
3. Practice Mindful Eating
For many people with eating disorders, food becomes a source of stress, guilt, or control. Mindful eating is about rebuilding trust with your body and allowing yourself to nourish it without fear or shame. This can mean eating without distractions, honoring hunger and fullness cues, and letting go of food rules that don’t serve your well-being. It’s okay if this takes time—be gentle with yourself.
4. Develop Coping Strategies
Many people use disordered eating as a way to cope with difficult emotions like stress, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Identifying what triggers these behaviors and finding healthier coping mechanisms is an important part of recovery. This could mean journaling, practicing deep breathing, engaging in creative activities, or talking to a therapist. You deserve coping tools that nourish you—not harm you.
5. Set Realistic Goals
Recovery isn’t linear—it’s filled with ups and downs, and that’s okay. Instead of aiming for “perfection,” focus on small, achievable steps that support your well-being. This could be challenging a fear food, practicing self-compassion, or celebrating a day without disordered behaviors. Every step forward, no matter how small, is progress worth celebrating.
You Are Not Alone—Support Is Available
In honor of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, we want to remind you that help is available, and healing is possible. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, reaching out for professional support can be a powerful step forward.
Our eating disorder specialist, Stephanie Polizzi, is here to support you.
Schedule a 15-minute consultation with Stephanie today and take the first step toward healing.
You deserve support. You deserve healing. You deserve a full and happy life.
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