Every summer, temperatures are at their hottest while clothing is at its scarcest. People everywhere flock to the pool, the beach, or the lake to swim and enjoy the sun. As a result, social media is flooded with pictures that may invite body comparison. For anyone who has struggled with an eating disorder, the temptation to resort to old habits can be triggered by certain imagery, from swimsuit photos to “thinspiration,” and even “fitspiration” posts. We can all become more aware of how the images we post affect others, and those in recovery need to know what to avoid as they go online this summer.
By Christa Banister In any number of movies, television shows, or after-school specials that have aired over the years, there’s often a strikingly similar depiction of what someone who struggles with an eating disorder looks like. And that familiar image — a white, very thin, generally young and affluent woman— has frequently led to a […]
While there is definitely more information about eating disorders available and no demographic left untouched, some people still don’t want to — or don’t feel comfortable — talking about these issues.
By Wesley Gallagher Recovery from eating disorders, as with all mental health disorders, takes time, energy, counseling, and a transformative change in the way you view yourself and the world. If you struggle with an eating disorder, you might notice conflicting feelings: Even if you know that what you’re doing is unhealthy, even if you […]
By Meadows Senior Fellow Jenni Schaefer “Just eat,” well-meaning friends said. I was in recovery from an eating disorder. I couldn’t “just eat,” because, for one, I didn’t “just” choose to have an eating disorder in the first place. In fact, research suggests that 50-80% of eating disorder risk is due to genetic effects. Back […]