World Eating Disorders Action Day (#WeDoAct) is a grassroots movement designed for and by people affected by an eating disorder, their families and medical and health professionals. Uniting activists across the globe, the aim is to expand global awareness of eating disorders as genetically linked, treatable illnesses that can affect anyone. The Seventh Annual #WorldEatingDisordersDay will take place on June 2, 2022 across the globe.
This year’s theme is Caring For Carers, which puts a spotlight on parents, grandparents, siblings, partners/spouses, significant others and other family or friends who care for people affected by eating disorders.
How Professionals Can Stand Up for Eating Disorder Clients
As mental health and eating disorder treatment specialists, we have a duty to stand up for our clients, to educate them on the best treatments and coping skills and to provide a sense of security or support when no one else can. It is our duty to be linked up to support groups and community outreach centers and to have knowledge on books, movies and documentaries that are available in regards to eating disorders. It is also our job to stop the stigma against eating disorders and teach the general public how eating disorders occur.
We must remember that eating disorders are not a choice, but a pathological disease brought on by many factors such as genetics, past trauma, low self-esteem, poor coping skills, bullying, poor parental relationships, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, non-suicidal self-injury disorder (NSSI), a perfectionistic personality, difficulty communicating negative emotions, difficulty resolving conflict and mental health disorders. People are afraid to seek help and treatment because they may be judged, ridiculed and shunned by others or may even judge themselves. As a result, many individuals live in silence about their undiagnosed eating disorder. Even when a diagnosis is made, individuals are scared to share their diagnosis with friends and family out of fear that they may be seen as inadequate or weak.
How Can Medical Professionals Break Stigma Around Eating Disorders?
- Support your clients
- Speak out about eating disorders
- Educate your friends and family on the truth behind eating disorders
- Teach your clients that they do not have to be weighed at the doctor’s office if they are uncomfortable
- Allow your clients to be honest with you about their feelings towards their bodies
- Think about why you chose to work in this field
- Submit an article to NEDA about your role in eating disorder treatment
- Post about your role in eating disorder treatment on social media
- Stay up to date on the current treatment research and DSM guidelines
Center for Discovery specializes in treatment for eating disorders, mental health and dual diagnosis treatment with unique treatment programs for every individual. For more information, resources, or to consult with one of our specialists, contact us today.
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