Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW), held February 24 – March 2, 2025, is an annual campaign to educate the public about eating disorders. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), eating disorders have the second-highest mortality rate among mental health conditions. Today, there is an urgent need for addressing the stigmas and lack of awareness that can prevent young individuals from seeking recovery.
The Intersection of Eating Disorders and Youth Mental Health
Each year, a theme is given to help acknowledge and deepen the understanding of EDAW. This year’s theme, “The Time is Now,” emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge, promoting early detection and treatment, and supporting research to improve outcomes for individuals affected by eating disorders. Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that do not discriminate. However, adolescents and young adults are particularly vulnerable due to developmental, social, and emotional factors. Recognizing the signs early, understanding how to help, and knowing where to access resources can make a significant difference in prevention and recovery.
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder often coexist with other mental health challenges. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, around 2.7% of adolescents experience an eating disorder each year, but many cases remain undiagnosed due to stigma and a lack of awareness. By fostering open conversations and increasing access to resources, we can help build resilience and connect youth to the support they need.
Be on the Lookout for These Signs
Early detection and intervention are essential. If you work with youth or have a young person in your life, be mindful of the following warning signs:
- Changes in Eating Habits: Skipping meals, eating in secret, or drastic changes in portion sizes.
- Body Image Concerns: Fixation on weight, body shape, or appearance.
- Emotional Symptoms: Withdrawal from social activities, irritability, or mood swings.
- Physical Changes: Noticeable weight fluctuations, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues.
- Exercise Patterns: Obsessive exercise routines or distress when unable to exercise.
If you notice any of these signs, approach the conversation with empathy and care. Center your concern on their well-being rather than their behaviors and create an environment where they feel heard and supported.
How You Can Help
Providing support to a youth struggling with an eating disorder can make a world of difference in their recovery journey. Here are a few steps to guide you:
- Start the Conversation: Choose a private and calm moment to voice your concerns. Use non-judgmental language and focus on what you’ve observed rather than making assumptions.
- Listen Without Judgment: Create a safe space where they can share their feelings. Avoid offering unsolicited advice or minimizing their experiences.
- Encourage Professional Help: Suggest connecting with a therapist, nutritionist, or doctor experienced in treating eating disorders.
- Provide Resources: Share reliable information about treatment options, such as National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) helpline or local mental health services.
- Be Patient and Supportive: Recovery takes time. Offer ongoing encouragement and remind them they are not alone.
Addressing Mental Health and Preventing Eating Disorders
Prevention starts with fostering a positive environment around body image and mental health. Discussing the impact of social media and unrealistic beauty standards with youth can promote self-compassion and healthy habits. Schools and community organizations can support prevention by integrating mental wellness programs that encourage healthy relationships with food and body image.
At Western Youth Services (WYS), we recognize the importance of comprehensive mental health support in addressing disordered eating. Our One Door Any Door® initiativeensures that youth have seamless access to the care they need, whether they reach out directly or are referred through a partner organization. From individual therapy to community-based resources, WYS provides the support necessary to help youth navigate mental health challenges, including eating disorders.
Resources to Support Recovery and Resilience
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA): Helpline, educational resources, and support.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Research and statistics on mental health and eating disorders.
- Western Youth Services: Learn more about our programs, including the One Door Any Door® initiative.
If you or someone you know is battling an eating disorder, just know that you’re not alone. Recovery from an eating disorder is possible. Join us at WYS in making a difference—one conversation, one resource, and one connection at a time.
If your child or a young loved one is struggling with a mental health concern, we encourage you to reach out to a mental health professional or to contact an Access Coordinator at Western Youth Services by sending an email to [email protected] or by calling us toll-free at 888-312-0406.
Orange County, State and National resources can be found on our site here: https://www.westernyouthservices.org/resources/.
