5 Ways to Push Back Against Summertime “Beach Body” Pressures
It happens every year as spring turns to summer, as predictable as seasonal allergies: advertisers, marketers, and influencers will start…
May 19, 2025
Eating Disorders: Beyond the Stereotypes
Eating disorders often carry an aura of mystery—steeped in misconceptions that can harm those who need help. Typically, the public…
May 13, 2025
The Hidden Risks of Eating Disorders in Student-Athletes
Sports are an important part of many adolescents' lives, offering valuable life skills, opportunities for personal growth, and physical health…
May 12, 2025
Bradycardia & Eating Disorders: How Low is Too Low?
Bradycardia, or low heart rate, is a common and potentially serious complication of eating disorders, affecting up to 95% of…
April 22, 2025
Food Restriction Is at the Root of Most Eating Disorders—Not Just Anorexia
When author Glennon Doyle revealed her struggle with anorexia nervosa in 2023, she said that she was shocked by her…
April 10, 2025
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
CW: Trauma, Abuse, Sexual Violence April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This month, and every month, we honor the…
April 01, 2025
Navigating Conversations in Eating Disorder Recovery
Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, are far more prevalent than many people realize and…
March 26, 2025
The Role of Family in Eating Disorder Recovery
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that requires a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach to treatment. While expert professional intervention is…
March 24, 2025
How to Find Treatment for An Eating Disorder
Dealing with administrative tasks like scheduling doctor’s appointments is never fun, per se. It takes time and energy to research…
March 24, 2025
How ADHD Influences Eating Patterns: Insights into Eating Disorders
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by symptoms such…
March 18, 2025
The Evolution of Eating Disorders Diagnoses: How Diagnostic Criteria Have Changed
Eating disorders are complex, brain-based illnesses that affect millions of people. Over the years, eating disorder diagnoses have evolved, as…
March 05, 2025
Supporting Loved Ones | Do’s & Don’ts
What do you say? What do you not say? What do you do? What do you not do As caregivers,…
March 01, 2025
Not One More 2025 | ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders impact over eight million people. Eating disorders affect so much more than just an individual’s relationship with food…
February 28, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Galen Hope
Every day, individuals and families are devastated by the reality of eating disorders. With the highest mortality rate of any…
February 27, 2025
New Research Suggests ARFID Is Largely Genetic: Now What?
Knowing the why behind something can be empowering; though this is true everywhere, it can be particularly resonant within the…
February 27, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Reasons Eating Disorder Center
Community is more than just a group of people—it's a supportive network where every voice is acknowledged and every struggle…
February 26, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Monte Nido
There’s a pervasive and destructive belief that too many people with eating disorders struggle to shake off: the belief that…
February 24, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Equip
Content warning: This article contains information and discussion around the topic of suicide. We know that eating disorders have the…
February 20, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Center for Change
“Not One More” is a jumping off point for action leading to change. Progress can take small steps that can…
February 19, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Within
Eating disorders are one of the deadliest mental illnesses, yet they often go overlooked as they are misunderstood and deeply…
February 17, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Alsana
Not One More embodies Alsana’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that no one has to endure the pain of an eating…
February 13, 2025
Not One More 2025 | Koru Spring
From the moment we are born, our lives are defined by numbers. Our age, GPA, school ranking, social media followers—all…
February 10, 2025
Understanding Neurodivergence and Eating Disorders
Did you know that nearly twenty percent of Americans identify as neurodivergent? Did you know that about ten percent of…
February 08, 2025
Health Complications in Eating Disorders: What to Watch For
Eating disorders (EDs) are mental illnesses in which someone struggles with their relationship to food and behaviors around eating. They…
January 27, 2025
Exploring the Role of the Gut-Brain Connection in Eating Disorder Recovery
Eating disorders are complex medical conditions with a wide variety of influencing factors. A growing body of research is finding…
January 07, 2025
Reframing Our Relationship to New Years
New Year’s often comes with the pressures of perfectionism, unattainable resolutions, and external expectations. Although separating ourselves from this approach…
December 31, 2024
Food Insecurity and Eating Disorders: Understanding the Connection
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can affect anyone. A wide variety of factors can influence how a…
December 28, 2024
Home for the Holidays with Eating Disorder Signs: What Now?
Alexia Davis, a family mentor at Equip, says she knew something was wrong with her loved one who was in…
December 23, 2024
Prioritizing Self-Care in our Daily Lives
Mental health is a lifelong journey of self-care, regardless of whether you’re a teenager navigating school and relationships or an…
December 20, 2024
ARFID in Adults: What Are the Symptoms and How Is It Treated?
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is often mistaken for “picky eating” but involves severe food avoidance or restriction. This condition…
December 18, 2024
The Relationship Between Binge Eating Disorder and Depression
Anyone who has ever lived with an eating disorder likely understands the fact that illnesses like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa,…
December 16, 2024
Using Labs to Detect & Treat Refeeding Syndrome
How to Use Labs to Detect and Treat Refeeding Syndrome The use of labs in the identification and treatment of…
December 12, 2024
Compulsive Exercise: When Fitness Becomes Unhealthy
Exercise and movement can be an important aspect for maintaining our wellbeing. Just as nourishing our bodies with food, wearing…
December 12, 2024
When Is It Safe to Exercise? Anorexia & Eating Disorder Recovery
If you're recovering from an eating disorder, work with your treatment team to determine when it’s appropriate to incorporate mindful…
December 04, 2024
Understanding ARFID in Adults
Gideon Whitehead says he’s struggled with ARFID for as long as he can remember. Because many people aren't aware that…
November 27, 2024
Navigating Holidays: A Guide For Individuals in Recovery
The holidays usually fill our lives with joy, cheer, and the spirit of unity. They typically include times for celebration,…
November 25, 2024
The Role of Hormones in Eating Disorders: Understanding the Biological Factors
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can impact anyone. They can be caused by a wide variety of…
November 22, 2024
The Influence of Parents and Caregivers on Adolescent Body Image and Eating Disorders
Body image issues are a growing concern for adolescents, and parents and family play a crucial role in shaping their…
November 22, 2024
Meta and the National Alliance for Eating Disorders Launch First Eating Disorder & Body Image Safety Summit on October 25, 2024
On October 25, 2024, Meta and the National Alliance for Eating Disorders hosted the first-ever Eating Disorder & Body Image…
November 15, 2024
The Dangers of Body Shaming
Eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors are dangerous conditions, and they’re on the rise. (1) A number of factors contribute…
November 12, 2024
Understanding the Connection Between Eating Disorders & Body Dysmorphic Disorder
You look in the mirror for what feels like all hours of the day. You cannot stop fixating on your…
November 07, 2024
Animal-Assisted Therapy for Eating Disorders: Benefits and Considerations
Animal companions undoubtedly bring us joy. But how much support can we expect from a dog, cat, or horse? Animal-assisted…
November 06, 2024
Struggling With Food? When & How to Ask for Help
Everyone’s experience with an eating disorder is different, making it difficult to know when and how to seek help. You…
November 04, 2024
Benefits of Eating Disorder Support Groups
Eating disorders can be extremely isolating. This makes sense when you consider that these illnesses thrive in secrecy, and so…
November 01, 2024
What is Diabulimia?
Recovery from diabulimia (ED-DMT1) is possible with proper, compassionate support. Individuals struggling with diabulimia need to know that diabetes management…
October 31, 2024
The Connection Between Eating Disorders and OCD
Eating disorders (EDs) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) are both complex and distressing mental health conditions, each with unique characteristics, yet…
October 29, 2024
Tips for a Happy Halloween in Eating Disorder Recovery
As Halloween approaches, many of us look forward to traditions like trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, haunted houses, and themed parties. While…
October 28, 2024
Neurodivergent+ & Eating Disorders
In recent years, there has been an increase in cultural awareness surrounding Neurodiversity. The term encompasses conditions such as autism…
October 16, 2024
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Eating Disorder Treatment
When you or a loved one are struggling with an eating disorder, the last thing you want to do is…
October 11, 2024
Disordered Eating vs. Eating Disorders
What is the difference between disordered eating and eating disorders? Disordered eating includes behaviors like skipping meals, dieting, and moralizing…
October 09, 2024
Benefits of Remote Treatment for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that, unfortunately, don’t go away on their own. While it’s always possible to…
October 07, 2024
Physical Effects of ARFID
What is ARFID? Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterized by food avoidance or restriction that results…
October 04, 2024
Very Dangerous and Very Misunderstood: Refeeding Syndrome
Eating disorders are serious and complex health issues with a wide variety of formidable health impacts. For those with more…
October 03, 2024
Eating Disorders in Pregnancy
For many years, I didn’t know if the destruction I had inflicted on my body in the form of bulimia…
October 02, 2024
Recognizing Body Dysmorphic Disorder
What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder? Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is defined as a mental health condition in which a person…
September 30, 2024
What to Know About Sleep-Related Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are common, treatable conditions that affect people in many different ways. Living with an eating disorder can make…
September 28, 2024
All Bodies Are Good Bodies: How to Reduce the Impact of Weight Stigma on Kids
Weight stigma affects all of us, including young children who can experience this in the form of name-calling, cyberbullying, and…
September 26, 2024
The Dangers of Stereotypes About Weight, Size, and Shape
Stereotypes based on weight, shape, and size run rampant in our modern society and help inform weight stigma, a dangerous…
September 24, 2024
September is National Suicide Prevention Month: Suicide and Eating Disorders
September is recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about suicide and fostering open dialogue…
September 20, 2024
What’s the Connection Between OCD and Eating Disorders?
Lauren Gerber says she always considered herself to be a fairly obsessive person. But she never identified as someone with…
September 18, 2024
Understanding Eating Disorders in the Hispanic & Latinx Community
Our society continues to perpetuate the myth that eating disorders are an issue primarily affecting young, thin white women. While…
September 16, 2024
What Is the History and Efficacy of the SCOFF Screening Tool?
As with any medical condition, early detection of an eating disorder (ED) is critical to improving the prognosis and recovery.…
September 15, 2024
The Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Suicidality
By reducing mental health stigmas, increasing awareness around the elevated risk of suicide among individuals with eating disorders, and promoting…
September 12, 2024
Working with Embodiment
Center for Discovery’s Path to Peace Program is a virtual intensive outpatient program (IOP) for adults with binge eating behaviors.…
September 11, 2024
Is Body Dysmorphia an Eating Disorder?
Some signs of eating disorders and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) overlap, so it can be hard to know where one…
September 09, 2024
The Impact of Eating Disorders on Athletic Performance
The benefits of athletics are well-established. Participating in organized sports can help you build self-esteem, recognize the value of teamwork,…
September 06, 2024
The Link Between Eating Disorders and Substance Use
Eating disorders and substance use disorders are mental illnesses – not moral failings. With early detection, treatment intervention, and ongoing…
September 04, 2024
What are the 5 Warning Signs of Orthorexia?
Orthorexia is a form of disordered eating characterized by an obsession with “healthy” or “clean” eating, often causing anxiety and…
August 30, 2024
The Intersection of Eating Disorders and Chronic Illnesses
For those who struggle with an eating disorder, many daily activities and routines can be difficult, no matter where a…
August 27, 2024
School’s in Session: Supporting a Student with an Eating Disorder
A new school year is just around the corner which inherently means excitement and nervous jitters for kids and students.…
August 26, 2024
Back-to-School with Eating Disorder Recovery
Balancing eating disorder recovery during the back-to-school season is possible and can be managed effectively with the right resources and…
August 22, 2024
Demystifying Eating Disorder Therapy
CBT, CBT-E, DBT… Have you ever wondered what all those letters stand for and why they are so often talked…
August 14, 2024
Our List of 50+ Eating Disorder Recovery Tips for Tough Days
Everyone’s path to recovery is unique and involves managing the ups and downs that come with it. Building a supportive…
August 13, 2024
Living and Learning with Diabetes for Nearly 50 Years
Dr. Mike Swinyard was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes nearly 50 years ago. He was told that after 10 to…
August 12, 2024
How to Navigate Social Events When Recovering from an Eating Disorder
Summer can be a busy time for many people. Social events, family gatherings, evenings with friends, and company outings all…
August 07, 2024
The Impact of Eating Disorders on the Brain and Academic Performance
You don’t know what to do. You’ve never had to worry about your twelve-year-old son before. His school report cards…
August 01, 2024
How to Talk to Children About Food and Body Image
How we talk about food and bodies with our children can have a significant impact on their self-perception and relationship…
July 28, 2024
How to Find the Right Eating Disorder Support Group
Eating disorders can affect anyone. In fact, nine percent of Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. Recovery…
July 27, 2024
ARFID Might Not “Feel Like” an Eating Disorder. It Absolutely Is.
Kelsey Gilchriest, a peer mentor at the virtual eating disorder treatment provider Equip, began having issues with food at an…
July 25, 2024
Gastroparesis and Eating Disorders
Gastroparesis is a stomach condition that is highly prevalent within the eating disorder community. The term “gastroparesis” directly translates to…
July 22, 2024
Addressing the Connection Between Mood Disorders and Eating Disorders: Insights from Recent Research
Monte Nido’s most recent outcomes show that 85% of all clients had a co-occurring diagnosis of a mood, anxiety or…
July 19, 2024
Depression and Eating Disorders: The Connection Explained
Weight changes, fatigue and insomnia can be common signs of both depression and eating disorders. So, how can you figure…
July 17, 2024
What Is Body Dysmorphia and How Does it Relate to Eating Disorders?
Before Stacy Jones was diagnosed with an eating disorder, she struggled with a related but separate issue: body dysmorphia. Body…
July 11, 2024
Rethinking Exercise: Joyful Movement Is Possible in Eating Disorder Recovery
In our appearance-obsessed culture, exercise is often portrayed as a means to attain the “perfect” body, rather than a practice…
July 03, 2024
Trauma and Eating Disorders
Life is full of ups and downs. But if a single, recurring, or even abstract situation becomes overwhelming or too…
June 29, 2024
“Hidden”
*CW* Mentions of eating disorder behaviors. Millions of people are hiding an eating disorder every day. Despite affecting nearly 29…
June 21, 2024
What Does a Dietitian Do?
The terms dietitian, nutritionist, and nutrition coach are often used interchangeably -- but they are not the same. A dietitian,…
June 14, 2024
Can Eating Disorders Affect Fertility?
Eating disorders impact the lives of millions of people. Conditions like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, OSFED, and binge eating disorder…
June 04, 2024
Coping with Summer Eating Disorder Triggers
Many eating disorder triggers tend to intensify around spring break and the summer months that follow. This poses significant challenges…
June 03, 2024
Bright Spots: Recent Breakthroughs in Eating Disorder Treatment Options
Living with an eating disorder is incredibly challenging and can ultimately be life-threatening. These conditions intertwine mental and physical health…
May 30, 2024
11 Subtle Signs of an Eating Disorder that Are Easy to Miss
A quick online search for “signs of an eating disorder” delivers you countless websites listing warning signs and common symptoms,…
May 20, 2024
Embracing Recovery: Facing Eating Disorders over Summer Break
As summer approaches, individuals struggling with eating disorders may experience an increase in anxiety. With summer comes holiday gatherings, a…
May 06, 2024
Eating Disorder Statistics: An Updated View for 2024
Eating disorders (EDs) are complex, brain-based illnesses that have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness. They…
May 04, 2024
Let’s Talk About Eating Disorders and Athletes
These days, when someone mentions the benefits of sports or athletics, the conversation almost always hits the same few points:…
April 29, 2024
The Role of Body Positivity in Eating Disorder Treatment & Recovery
Our relationships with our bodies are deeply personal, constantly shifting and evolving throughout our lifetimes. If you have lived experience…
April 26, 2024
What Are PHP and IOP Treatments for Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are serious conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, body size, and socioeconomic background. Eating disorders…
April 05, 2024
Eating Disorders and Autism: What You Need to Know
Note: In this blog, we use identity-first language (e.g., “an autistic individual”) to reflect those who embrace autism as an…
April 02, 2024
Breaking the Stigma: Understanding Binge Eating Disorder
What is Binge Eating Disorder (BED)? Binge eating disorder (BED) stands out as the most prevalent eating disorder in the…
March 28, 2024
Eating Disorders and Pregnancy: What to Know
Eating disorders are serious but treatable conditions that can be experienced by anyone at any point in their life. Some…
March 25, 2024
CEDO’s Response to the Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution
As the Collaborative of Eating Disorders (CEDO), we are extremely concerned about the lack of consideration for eating disorders in…
March 21, 2024
Eating Disorders and IBS – Are They Connected?
At The Alliance, one of our core missions is to provide education on topics surrounding eating disorders (EDs). We find…
March 04, 2024
Are Eating Disorders Genetic?
Eating disorders are common, serious, and treatable health conditions. But why do some people experience eating disorders while others do…
February 27, 2024
Not One More 2024 | The Renfrew Center
The Alliance’s call to action of Not One More is vital to allowing new awareness to emerge and grow. I…
February 22, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Reasons Eating Disorder Center
Not One More Day Without Care: A Call to End Weight Bias in Healthcare Seeking medical care should be a…
February 21, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Within Health
One in seven. One in five. 41.9 million. Males who experience an eating disorder by age 40. Females who experience…
February 20, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Equip
I remember the first time the word fat was used as an insult to me — kindergarten. Recklessly thrown at…
February 19, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Monte Nido & Affiliates
Monte Nido Strives for NOT ONE MORE Silent Struggle In our support of NOT ONE MORE Weekend this year, we…
February 16, 2024
Not One More 2024 | ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders affect over eight million people. Eating disorders can be debilitating and are potentially deadly. Many of those suffering…
February 15, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Laureate Eating Disorders Program
In my work with individuals with eating disorders I commonly find that fear keeps them trapped in their illness. Often…
February 13, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Center for Change
What I Would’ve Told my Teenage Self I celebrated my 38th birthday this week…inching closely to the big 4 –…
February 09, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Alsana
To me, NOT ONE MORE means not another precious moment spent enslaved to rules that do nothing but erode self-trust…
February 07, 2024
Not One More 2024 | Veritas Collaborative
Eating disorders are cruel illnesses. They hide in the shadows of shame and secrecy, demanding all the attention they can…
February 06, 2024
Not One More 2024 | The Emily Program
28.8 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. 28.8 million. A number so large, it’s hard to…
February 05, 2024
Eating Disorders and the DSM-5: A Complicated History
Diagnosing an eating disorder comes with an intense, complicated, and often tragic history. (We touch on it a bit in…
February 02, 2024
What Exactly Does an Eating Disorder Therapist Do?
Recovery from eating disorders (EDs) requires compassion, understanding, and a comprehensive approach. These mental health conditions can have serious consequences…
January 30, 2024
Body Dysmorphia and Eating Disorders: What You Need to Know
Eating disorders are serious but treatable conditions that can impact anyone in various ways. Sometimes eating disorders co-occur with other…
January 03, 2024
Have You Heard About Bigorexia?
Eating disorders and body dysmorphic disorder are serious health conditions that can have huge impacts on your physical, mental, and…
December 30, 2023
A New Year’s Resolution We Can Get Behind: A Year Free to Diet Culture
The beginning of a new year often stirs a range of emotions. While many embark on setting resolutions, it's crucial…
December 28, 2023
Eating Disorders in Athletes: What Everyone Should Know
Katherine Hill, MD, knows exactly when she first became interested in understanding the complexities of eating disorders: during her career…
December 27, 2023
New Year… of Health and Happiness!
"You don't have to learn how to love yourself. You just have to remember there was nothing wrong with you…
December 26, 2023
Finding Festivity with Difficult Family Dynamics While in Eating Disorder Recovery
It’s no secret that the holidays can be an emotionally challenging time for anyone, and are often especially tough for…
December 22, 2023
Exploring the Link Between Trauma, PTSD, and Eating Disorders: A Comprehensive Study
Traditionally, the consensus in the eating disorder (ED) field had been to avoid trauma work during intensive treatment, opting to…
December 19, 2023
Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorder (OSFED): What It Is and What’s Included
Many people fit into a “gray area” when it comes to eating disorder behaviors. Perhaps they experience purging, but not…
December 18, 2023
What is the Best Treatment for ARFID?
It’s not unusual to experience some selectiveness around food. Many people have allergies that limit their food choices, others are…
December 11, 2023
Why Is Everyone Talking About “Drunkorexia?”
An eating disorder can present in many seemingly unexpected ways and can have immense impacts on an individual's health and…
December 10, 2023
4 Approaches Proven to Treat Eating Disorders in Adults
There’s a significant treatment gap when it comes to adults with eating disorders: Nearly 30 million Americans will develop an…
December 01, 2023
Supporting Mothers in Recovery
Pursuing treatment for an eating disorder or another mental health concern can be incredibly difficult, especially for mothers who may…
November 30, 2023
What Does a Psychiatric Nurse Do?
Psychiatric nurses are registered nurses who offer support to patients with mental illnesses. Most people are impacted by poor mental…
November 29, 2023
The Correlation of Cultural & Family Dynamics to Disordered Eating in Hispanic & Latin Populations
Cultural Values and Their Effects on Body Positivity In Hispanic and Latin communities, heritage is celebrated through many facets of…
November 27, 2023
Is Outpatient Eating Disorder Treatment Right for You? Understanding Different Levels of Care
When you’re searching for eating disorder treatment, the options can feel overwhelming—just the acronyms alone (IOP, PHP, FBT?) are dizzying.…
November 21, 2023
How to Help Patients Navigate the Holiday Season in Recovery
With the abundance of food, shared mealtimes, and large social gatherings, the holiday season can be immensely difficult for anyone…
November 20, 2023
Tips for Removing Morality from Food
Whether it be through advertising, social media, or even within supermarkets, we as people seem to continuously assign moral values…
November 17, 2023
Juggling Priorities: Navigating Eating Disorder Treatment & Extracurriculars
Your child starts exhibiting the signs of an eating disorder. You contact an eating disorder treatment center for help and…
November 15, 2023
What Is Rumination Disorder?
Rumination disorder (rumination syndrome) is an eating and feeding disorder in which food is involuntarily regurgitated into the mouth. In…
November 07, 2023
A Guide to Children and Eating Disorders
An eating disorder is a serious health condition that can impact anyone regardless of gender, race, background, and even age.…
October 28, 2023
Understanding the Relationship Between Eating Disorders and OCD
Almost all types of mental health conditions are more common among people who have an eating disorder. These conditions are…
October 26, 2023
A Deeper Look At Social Media and Eating Disorders
Social media platforms have a wide range of connections to our mental health. At the most simplistic level, apps like…
October 03, 2023
What Happens When I Call An Eating Disorder Helpline?
It can be overwhelming and isolating to struggle with an eating disorder. Disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and…
September 28, 2023
Using HAES Principles to Help Treat Patients with “Atypical” Anorexia
Body weight and body mass index (BMI), while inaccurate and inappropriate for many reasons, are still used to indicate the…
September 25, 2023
How Body Image Fits Into Eating Disorder Treatment
Many eating disorder symptoms have to do with bodies: being preoccupied with your body, going to great lengths to change…
September 14, 2023
Eating Disorders, Suicide, & Shame
CW: Mentions of Suicide Pretty much anyone who knows me also knows that I've recovered from an eating disorder. As…
September 13, 2023
The Connection Between Insecure Attachment Styles and Eating Disorders
Eating disorders, like many mental illnesses, can make you feel isolated and alone. It can be difficult to know how…
September 03, 2023
How To Support Kids Facing Unwanted Back-to-School Comments About Their Appearance
The return to school is never seamless for kids. While there’s sure to be excitement about reuniting with friends and…
August 22, 2023
Do Eating Disorders Affect All Ages? Surprising Facts about EDs
Did you know that nearly 30 million people in the United States struggle with an eating disorder? It’s likely that…
August 22, 2023
Why the Word “Ob*sity” is Fatphobic
CW: Mentions of "ob*sity" - While we absolutely do not support the use of weight stigmatizing language, the terms "ob*sity"…
August 15, 2023
What to Expect at an Eating Disorder Support Group
Support groups are an incredibly helpful part of so many recovery journeys, but they can be intimidating to join!" And,…
August 09, 2023
How Does Eating Disorder Therapy Work?
When someone is struggling with their mental health, the first recommendation they often get is to see a therapist—and often,…
August 07, 2023
The Definitive Guide to All Types of Eating Disorders
Did you know that nearly 30 million Americans experience an eating disorder in their lifetime? Eating disorders are health conditions…
July 24, 2023
Disordered Eating vs. Eating Disorders – What’s the Difference?
In a society that often places tremendous emphasis on appearance and body ideals, our relationship with food and eating can…
July 06, 2023
The Surprising History of Diet Culture
Despite all the messaging that tells us otherwise, health looks different in everybody. Unfortunately, diet culture has strong-armed society into…
June 27, 2023
6 Symptoms of Night Eating Syndrome
Many people have heard of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, but an eating disorder can present…
June 10, 2023
What To Say to Someone With an Eating Disorder
Eating disorders affect both the person struggling and those around them. As a loved one, it makes sense to feel…
May 21, 2023
So, Let’s Talk About Eating Disorders In Men
Anyone can have an eating disorder. While conversations about eating disorders tend to focus on the significant social pressures women…
May 10, 2023
I Felt Alone When Diagnosed with ARFID – Until I Found Mentorship
I once met with a registered dietitian who was new to my treatment team, and when I mentioned my eating…
April 24, 2023
What Is an Eating Disorder Helpline?
At the National Alliance for Eating Disorders (“The Alliance”), our mission is to create better access to education, referrals, and…
April 14, 2023
Is Your Loved One Experiencing Atypical Anorexia? 6 Signs to Look Out For
Categorizing and labeling any eating disorder is a tricky subject. On one hand, having a clear diagnosis makes it easier…
March 24, 2023
Debunking 4 Myths of Virtual Eating Disorder Treatment Programs
Advances in technology, the changing needs of those living with eating disorders, and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic have…
March 24, 2023
What Is Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment? 5 Things to Know
An eating disorder is a dangerous and potentially fatal mental health condition that should be treated by medical professionals. For…
March 12, 2023
Science says Family-Based Treatment (FBT) is the Most Effective Treatment for Eating Disorders—Here’s Why
Maris Degener and her family had just begun seeking eating disorder treatment when they were given a pamphlet for something…
March 09, 2023
Not One More 2023 | McCallum Place
NOT ONE MORE CHILD Coming off the heels of new clinical guidelines introduced by the American Academy of Pediatrics, we…
March 01, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Reasons Eating Disorder Center
How and why to say ‘Not One More Diet’ and mean it If you have followed diets all your life,…
February 28, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Walden Behavioral Care
Not One More Harmful Post: How Social Media Amplifies Diet Culture and Impacts Mental Health Social media is a tool…
February 23, 2023
Unaware About Eating Disorder Awareness Week? You’re Not Alone
Eating disorder awareness is one of the key pieces to preventing eating disorders and connecting those suffering with support. Though…
February 22, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Veritas Collaborative
Eating disorders are cruel illnesses. They hide in the shadows of shame and secrecy, demanding all the attention they can…
February 22, 2023
Not One More 2023 | The Emily Program
At The Emily Program, we are honored to extend a hand to extraordinarily brave clients embarking on a journey toward…
February 21, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Eating Recovery Center
Alone: Not One More, Not Anymore If I had a superpower that would let me instantly connect those battling an…
February 20, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Center for Discovery
To me, “not one more” means that person of an ethnic minority does not continue to face an eating disorder…
February 17, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Alsana
Not One More. For me and the rest of the Alsana team, this means working collectively to spread awareness about…
February 16, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Monte Nido & Affiliates
“Not One More" is a powerful slogan that carries a message of hope and resilience for those who have been…
February 15, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Equip
Eating Disorder Recovery as an Asian American First and foremost, I am writing from the perspective as a young adult…
February 14, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Within Health
I studied my mother’s face as the doctor explained the “problem” with my body. He handed us each a shiny…
February 13, 2023
Not One More 2023 | ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders
Many of the physical manifestations of an eating disorder are overlooked or are accepted as a part of life. For…
February 10, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Center for Change
Alison. Laina. Rachel. Amy. Natalie. Raelyn. These six beautiful souls were my friends, roommates, and confidantes. They were some of…
February 09, 2023
Not One More 2023 | The Renfrew Center
The Alliance’s call to action of Not One More is vital to allowing new awareness to emerge and grow. I…
February 08, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Banyan Treatment Center
At the end of a patient’s journey, I will end our last visit by asking, “tell me something you want…
February 07, 2023
How to Better Understand the Confusing, Counterintuitive World of Orthorexia
Eating is an important factor in maintaining physical and mental well-being. However, a focus on “healthy eating” and nutrition can…
February 06, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Carolina House
For the past sixteen years, I have worked with eating disorder patients in residential and inpatient settings. These are some…
February 06, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Timberline Knolls
Not one more family without hope. This message is for you: the mother, father, spouse, partner, brother, or sister…The loved…
February 03, 2023
Not One More 2023 | Galen Hope
Eating Disorder Awareness is very important to us at Galen Hope. The intersection of mental health and eating disorder treatment…
February 01, 2023
What Exactly Is Diabulimia?
Diabulimia is a serious eating disorder that is often overlooked. It is defined as the deliberate misuse of insulin among…
January 21, 2023
To the Members of the American Academy of Pediatrics
As the Collaborative of Eating Disorders Organizations (CEDO), we strongly oppose the new clinical guidelines introduced by the American Academy…
January 13, 2023
What is OSFED?
Many people struggle with eating disorders. Commonly understood diagnoses like anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa account for many cases of…
December 29, 2022
Nutrition is not a Diet: Promoting Food Acceptance and Inclusivity
Nutrition and dieting are often confused in our culture, each reduced to an “eat this, not that” mentality that sees…
December 22, 2022
Managing Your Recovery During the Holidays
The holidays are a time of celebration and joy for many, but for a person who’s in eating disorder recovery,…
December 15, 2022
Atypical Anorexia is More Typical Than We May Think
What is Atypical Anorexia? Atypical anorexia occurs when all criteria are met for anorexia nervosa such as restricting food and…
December 12, 2022
Family Support: A Key Element in Eating Disorder Treatment
For children and young adolescents with eating disorders, families play an important support role in eating disorder treatment. Families make…
December 09, 2022
Can College Wait?
Making the decision to go to college after high school is stressful enough let alone when one is struggling with…
December 07, 2022
Control vs. Choice
A quick google search gets you these definitions and list of synonyms for control and choice: CONTROL – the power…
December 05, 2022
Is There a Link Between Genetics and ARFID?
Every eating disorder is a complex psychiatric disorder, and as such, tends to have equally complex causes that vary from…
December 02, 2022
Binge Eating Disorder and the Holiday Season
For many, the holiday season brings feelings of excitement, warmth, and closeness with family and friends. However, for those who…
November 30, 2022
How to Recognize an Eating Disorder During the Holidays
The holidays are all about celebrating with loved ones. But, as they approach, anyone can get swept up in the…
November 28, 2022
8 Tips for Thriving During the Holidays With an Eating Disorder
The holiday season can be a joyful time filled with social gatherings, family traditions, and abundant food. However, for those…
November 25, 2022
P.R.E.P. for the Holidays
As the season changes to fall, our attention is drawn toward the upcoming holidays. Often marketed as the “most wonderful…
November 23, 2022
Time to Act
You cannot think your way into an eating disorder, nor can you think your way out of it. The progression…
November 21, 2022
Greek Life: How Sororities Can Support Members with Eating Disorders
Sorority girls and frat boys. The words often evoke a visceral reaction. Whether it’s the media, those not involved in…
November 17, 2022
Reasons for Recovery: What I Learned from My Eating Disorder and Eating Disorder Recovery Process
Let me introduce myself: I’m Sandra. I am 27 years old, and I am currently in recovery from an eating…
November 14, 2022
Ethics in Eating Disorder Treatment
Eating disorder clinicians are guided by ethics to ensure the best for every patient that comes into their care. In…
November 10, 2022
Exploring the Role of Psychiatric Care for Eating Disorder Treatment
Being serious mental health disorders that can have severe mental and physical health consequences, eating disorders often require extensive psychiatric…
October 17, 2022
Facing My Eating Disorder in College
At the humane society where I worked in my 20s, I met a German Shepherd named Kayla who struggled with…
October 12, 2022
How to Support a Loved One with an Eating Disorder
If you have a loved one with an eating disorder, navigating how to best support them can be challenging. You…
October 06, 2022
Psychiatric Illness Can Co-Occur with Eating Disorders
Although it can happen, most mental health disorders don’t happen by themselves. There are usually one or more other disorders…
September 29, 2022
Will College and Outpatient Recovery Work for Me?
Are you wondering if it’s possible to balance both school and outpatient treatment? The answer is yes! While college can…
September 27, 2022
Using Biofeedback to Treat Eating Disorders
What is biofeedback? Biofeedback is a tool used to practice self-regulation and can help improve anxiety, stress, sleep, mood, and…
September 22, 2022
Food Insecurity and Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex illnesses. Diverse and multifaceted, they are associated with biological, psychological, and social factors that themselves are…
September 06, 2022
The Benefits of Seeking Eating Disorder Treatment in the Fall
If you are thinking about postponing eating disorder treatment until after the holidays, consider some of the benefits of reaching…
August 22, 2022
Night Eating Syndrome: The Eating Disorder We Need to Talk About
Raise your hand if you struggle with grazing, nibbling, snacking, or binge eating at night, in between dinner and bedtime.…
August 19, 2022
All the Things Your Body is Telling You About Your Movement Needs
Disclaimer: Discussing movement in eating disorder recovery can be difficult because there is so much nuance in one’s relationship with…
August 17, 2022
Four Ways Trauma Care Informs Eating Disorder Treatment
*CW: Mentions of Trauma* Eating disorder treatment experts know unequivocally that trauma and PTSD are important contributing factors in…
August 15, 2022
Laying the Foundation for Progress
It is part of being an activist or an advocate, that you tend to focus on the problems that still…
August 05, 2022
Grocery Shopping in Eating Disorder Recovery
It’s been a few weeks since you’ve completed treatment. You have learned coping strategies to manage eating disorder impulses and…
August 02, 2022
How to Create a Positive Online Environment to Help People Recovering from Eating Disorders
Could we imagine scrolling through our social media feeds to see that body diversity is honored and was a space…
July 27, 2022
The Jewish Community, Food, and Eating Disorders
The prevalence of eating disorders, like Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa, is on the rise, and they are not discriminating…
July 25, 2022
Being Non-Binary in Recovery
When I first came to terms with needing help for a life-threatening eating disorder, I had no idea I would…
July 14, 2022
A Quick Guide to Orthorexia Nervosa
Although Orthorexia Nervosa is not included as a standalone disorder in the DSM-V, it’s recognized by most in the psychiatric…
July 08, 2022
Navigating the Pressures of Swimsuit Season
Swimsuit season. Beach body. Bikini ready. The terms are thrown around casually every summer. In regular conversation, on social media,…
July 01, 2022
Food and Culture: LGBTQ+ Clients of Latinx Backgrounds
Cultural and family values impact the relationships we have with food and with our bodies. Specifically, within Latinx cultures, food…
June 29, 2022
3 Things Every Medical Professional Should Know about Eating Disorders
You've Seen Eating Disorder Patients Before, Even If You Don't Think You Have. In fact, you may have seen it…
June 23, 2022
What is Pica Disorder?
The word “pica” is Latin for magpie—a bird known for eating almost anything. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual…
June 21, 2022
The Vital Importance of Gender-Informed Care
Gender-informed care is close to my heart. When working with clients with an eating disorder, a gender-informed lens is necessary,…
June 16, 2022
The Power of Gender Inclusive Pronouns
It’s Pride Month and at Walden Behavioral Care, our pride is in our ability to connect from one heart to…
June 07, 2022
Eating Disorders Don’t Take A Summer Vacation
For many, summertime means vacations, long, warm days, and a much-appreciated break from school or work. It is a season…
May 31, 2022
10 Tips to Reduce Stress
The COVID-19 pandemic added stress to our lives, which affects not only our mental health, but physical health and emotional…
May 20, 2022
Giving Yourself Grace
Disappointment is a part of the recovery process. In fact, it is a BIG part of it. How to handle…
May 13, 2022
Pregnancy and Eating Disorders: What You Need to Know
Pregnancy brings new demands and changes to a person’s body – it’s necessary to get the right amount of caloric…
March 24, 2022
ARFID: Finding Treatment That Works
“It’s a phase.” “They’ll outgrow it.” “If they get hungry enough, they’ll eat.” Parents and caregivers of those who struggle…
March 18, 2022
The Healing Potential of Art Therapy
Art therapy is an integrative mental health field that is often used in the treatment of eating disorders. While traditional…
March 15, 2022
Take Action on New Guidelines Released by The Academy
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has recently released “Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Interventions for Adult Overweight and Obesity Treatment:…
March 02, 2022
Not One More 2022 | McCallum Place
In The Victory Program at McCallum Place, we want to create a sports culture where Not One More athlete has to endure…
March 02, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Alsana
Not One More Life Hijacked and Destroyed by Diet Culture Not One More means we’re fed up - no pun…
March 01, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Galen Hope
For our team at Galen Hope, #NOTONEMORE means many things. Not one more life lost to eating disorders is certainly…
February 28, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Rogers Behavioral Health
28.8 million Americans – approximately 9% of the U.S. population – will have an eating disorder during their lifetime. These…
February 27, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Center for Change
“Not One More” is a jumping off point for action leading to change. Progress can take small steps that can…
February 26, 2022
Not One More 2022 | ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are pervasive. More than 29 million individuals in the United States will suffer from an eating disorder. Eating…
February 25, 2022
Not One More 2022 | The Emily Program
As children, our minds are like sponges, soaking up all we see and hear around us. No one enters this…
February 24, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Spring Health
#NotOneMore Company Without Access to Comprehensive Mental Health Support Just two years ago, the professional landscape looked drastically different. Most…
February 23, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Timberline Knolls
What does “not one more” mean to you? As someone who spent many years fighting Anorexia Nervosa, my initial answer…
February 22, 2022
still becoming.
by: Laurie Yurchuck, Administrative + Technology Coordinator --- I used to think that healing was a race. I thought that…
February 21, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Monte Nido & Affiliates
Supporting clients on their journey through recovery to becoming fully recovered is far from easy. It is filled with a…
February 21, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Equip
Unheard and Unseen: Enduring and Overcoming Medical Trauma as a Fat Woman of Color Content Warning: Loss of life, cancer,…
February 17, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Veritas Collaborative
Eating disorders are mental illnesses that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, ability, size, or other…
February 11, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Reasons Eating Disorder Center
Each year, the National Alliance for Eating Disorders hosts Not One More Weekend to raise awareness of eating disorders, to…
February 07, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Center for Discovery
As someone who grew up in the ballet community and became a behavioral health professional and dance educator, I know…
February 05, 2022
Not One More 2022 | ViaMar Health
“Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.” I think of…
February 04, 2022
Not One More 2022 | Walden Behavioral Care
While eating disorders affect people of all genders, ages, and ethnicities, some groups are particularly susceptible to the disease. According…
February 02, 2022
Climate Change: The Mental Health Risk-Factor You Never Considered
Do you consider climate change a risk to your mental health? For me, a Broadcast Meteorologist and Climate Journalist, the…
January 19, 2022
The Global Impact of Eating Disorder Recovery
Recovering from an eating disorder requires an immense amount of courage, strength, and bravery. It is not something that happens…
January 04, 2022
Why Group Therapy? – The Benefits of Connection
“There simply is no pill that can replace human connection. There is no pharmacy that can fill the need for…
December 29, 2021
Optimizing Sport Performance by Looking Beyond Weight
Athletes are well attuned to the conversations in sport surrounding weight and performance. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, healthcare professional,…
December 22, 2021
Intuitive Eating Practices During the Holidays
The holiday season is around the corner and it can be a difficult time to navigate when you have an…
December 12, 2021
What is Body Image?
A person’s body image is defined by feelings and judgments they have about their own body and appearance; perceptions around…
December 07, 2021
6 Tips to Get through Thanksgiving
Many see Thanksgiving as a way of connecting with family by coming together and enjoying a traditional Thanksgiving meal. However,…
November 23, 2021
Hap-pea Holidays!
Oh, the holidays – a time that means so much to so many. Twinkling lights, bustling bodies, gift-wrapping galore, and…
November 19, 2021
Navigating the Thanksgiving Holiday
Apparently it’s November again (Mentally: Still in March 2020), and we are approaching another holiday season. The holidays can be…
November 18, 2021
Eating Disorders Among Men
The first clinical reporting of a man with an eating disorder occurred in 1689, yet men have often been left…
November 15, 2021
A New Chapter for The Alliance
In the United States, turning “21” represents growing up, coming of age, and taking ownership of your identity as you…
October 15, 2021
A Note On Growth
Growth in the fire “This will make you better.” Every time I asked why-- Why me? Why did I develop…
September 21, 2021
Climbing the Mountain: Finding Resiliency in Recovery
I ran into the word resiliency while I was on social media. It was a reminder of something I wanted…
August 17, 2021
What Is Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)?
Many eating disorders, such as Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa, are well-known even among non-medical professionals and oftentimes easy to…
July 26, 2021
Self Love: Taking Internal Inventory
“What do you need?” On the days I find myself on the therapy couch overwhelmed, overworked, anxious, and spinning, my…
July 15, 2021
Witness to Resilience
The past year has permanently changed my life, and not just for reasons relating to the pandemic. In May of…
July 12, 2021
Gender Dysphoria, Body Dysmorphia, & Body Image in Trans & Non-Binary Folks
Body image issues are often the most difficult aspect of eating disorder recovery to overcome. Dialogue around eating disorders and…
June 28, 2021
Living a Life Beyond Eating Disorders: A Conversation with Demi Lovato + Jameela Jamil
The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness’ Founder + CEO, Johanna Kandel, recently sat down with Renowned Singer, Actress, and Activist,…
June 24, 2021
Embodying Pride by Taking Up Space: Eating Disorders in the LGBTQ+ Community
Last week, our community in The Alliance’s LGBTQ+ pro-recovery eating disorders support group reflected on what it means to have…
June 18, 2021
The Process
TRUST the process, then EMBRACE the process, and eventually ENJOY the process. Those words are written on the inside cover…
June 03, 2021
Why the Word “Recovery” is All Wrong
About ten years ago, I was taking part in an evening of live music and meditation as a part of…
May 17, 2021
The Alliance Joins The Mental Health Coalition
At The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness, we are proud to announce our membership with The Mental Health Coalition. Together,…
May 12, 2021
Embrace Your Experience
Even before my eating disorder made its first official “debut” with symptoms in my senior year of high school, I…
May 11, 2021
In Anticipation of a Post-Pandemic Existence: Am I Excited or Am I Anxious?
As of mid-April 2021, more than 23 million vaccines have been administered in California and the state’s Covid-19 positivity rate…
May 07, 2021
From Patient to Professional: Working in the ED Field while in Recovery
A few years ago, I couldn’t imagine recovering from my eating disorder, let alone working as a professional in the…
May 04, 2021
Transitions: Building Bridges to Recovery
If, as I’ve come to know, recovery from an eating disorder is a process, then transitions are the bridges we…
April 23, 2021
How to Know if You Have an Eating Disorder
How do we know when disordered eating becomes an eating disorder? Disordered eating does not interfere with one’s ability to…
April 22, 2021
Ensuring Eating Disorders Are Part of the Conversation
1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year. With the COVID-19 pandemic, some experts are estimating that number…
April 15, 2021
Neurobiology and Genetics
It is an exciting time in the world of brain and mental health research. Over the past few years, there…
April 05, 2021
We Can Do Hard Things!
Life without hardships? Well, that’s not something that anyone can promise you. There will surely be times that you don’t…
March 27, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Renfrew Center
The Alliance’s call to action of Not One More is vital to allowing new awareness to emerge and grow. I…
March 10, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Caron Renaissance
For many of us, this past year marked an unprecedented loss of normalcy and control – beyond our comprehension. We’ve…
March 09, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Eating Recovery Center
When I look up the meaning of Lost, this is what I find: “Unable to find one’s way; not knowing…
March 03, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Center for Change
When I see the phrase “Not One More”, I admit that the first thing that comes to mind are questions.…
February 27, 2021
Not One More 2021 | McCallum Place
There are so many thoughts that come to mind when brainstorming a meaningful “Not One More” statement because, well, eating…
February 26, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Center for Discovery
When my child was in the grips of his eating disorder, every day was filled with “not one more” wishes.…
February 25, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Monte Nido & Affiliates
When I think of Not One More, I think of a very special young lady that we lost to her…
February 24, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Walden Behavioral Care
How cool to be part of a weekend, a moment in time, a coming together in our eating disorder community…
February 23, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Reasons Eating Disorder Center
Not one more person living with the experience of body shame and self-loathing. Not one more body labeled as unworthy…
February 21, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Timberline Knolls
I will never understand how people with such beautiful souls, incredible minds, empathetic hearts and an energy that is so…
February 20, 2021
Not One More 2021 | The Emily Program
28.8 million Americans will have an eating disorder in their lifetime. 28.8 million. A number so large, it’s hard to…
February 19, 2021
Eating Disorders Awareness Week
Did you know that 29 million Americans will experience a clinically significant eating disorder during their lifetime? Yet, only one-third…
February 17, 2021
Not One More 2021 | Carolina House
I had never heard of the Not One More movement prior to writing this blog. When approached to write an…
February 16, 2021
Not One More 2021 | ViaMar Health
I remember the very first Alliance walk I attended. It was a chilly Sunday morning at the Raymond James Stadium…
February 15, 2021
Kindling Hope in Uncertain Times
Having hope while in recovery can feel easy on some days and much harder on others; sometimes tangible and ripe,…
February 01, 2021
20 Powerful Recovery Lessons from 2020
The year 2020 has been filled with countless challenges, obstacles, and opportunities for inner growth. Let’s be real, I don’t…
December 30, 2020
The Instagram Perfect Holiday
It was the perfect Christmas – I began the season at a party with my dear friends, took advantage of…
December 23, 2020
Finding My Advocate Voice: A Note on Disability and Eating Disorder Recovery
Long before therapy, dietitian, and group appointments, my parents took me to countless doctors appointments because of my disability. I…
December 18, 2020
The Blessings of The Storms
A quote by N.R. Walker says, “Whenever you find yourself doubting how far you can go, just remember how far…
December 07, 2020
Embracing My Identity
I want to first thank my beautiful community at The Alliance for asking me to take the time to write…
November 10, 2020
It is OK to STILL Need Help
For the past five years, I called New York City home, a home I worked hard to build for myself.…
October 30, 2020
A Page in Your Survival Guide
“Tell the story of the mountain you climbed. Your words could become a page in someone else’s survival guide”- Morgan…
October 28, 2020
Spirituality and Eating Disorders
“Feed them and they will come.” This is the mantra of many churches and religious organizations. Growing up, a church…
October 23, 2020
Embracing Transitions to Create Positive Change
Transitions can be incredibly challenging, especially while in recovery. Change tends to go hand in hand with discomfort, disruption of…
October 20, 2020
Navigating Eating Disorders as an Athlete: A Recovery Story
I suffered from the afflictions of an eating disorder for three years. I wanted to take the time to get…
September 25, 2020
Balancing Eating Disorders and Parenthood: A Recovery Story
Reasons alum, Rachel S., shares how becoming a mom changed her, and ultimately inspired her to seek the treatment she…
August 25, 2020
Autism and Eating Disorders: Navigating ED on the Spectrum
I was 20 years old when I found out I was Autistic. At that point, I was already four years…
August 05, 2020
Breast Cancer + Eating Disorders: My Journey of Survival
My name is Leah Wypych and I am the Chair of the Board of Directors for The Alliance for Eating…
July 27, 2020
Backing the SERVE Act: Eating Disorder Care in the Military
When I started my military career, the thought of me developing an eating disorder was improbable and impossible. Less than…
July 14, 2020
Unique Eating Disorder Struggles During a Pandemic
For many who struggle with an eating disorder, the state officials’ mandate of practicing social distancing can feel like a…
July 09, 2020
Parental Guilt: How Love Leaves Us Vulnerable
Are we wired for parental guilt? I remember the moment I found out I was pregnant, my initial rush of…
June 25, 2020
Seven Action Steps to Help the LGBTQ+ Community Reach Recovery During COVID-19
As we all continue to limit social interactions with those outside of our immediate household, LGBTQ+ youth in recovery face…
June 17, 2020
The Impact of Food Insecurity During COVID-19 For Individuals With ARFID
The COVID-19 pandemic has created stress on our internal infrastructure, disrupting our food systems. Every time I go to the…
June 15, 2020
ARFID: Educating our peers and healthcare providers
I never thought I would be making a post about the importance of advocating for your mental health when it…
June 12, 2020
I Wish I Had findEDhelp When I Was Struggling
When I was in high school and first started struggling with “eating issues,” as my family labeled it, my parents…
June 10, 2020
Breaking Up with Diet Culture
Toxic diet culture and personal insecurities—how are they related? When others and I talk about toxic diet culture, we are…
June 09, 2020
Finding What Feels Good!
If you’ve never heard the term "joyful movement," that's okay. Movement is another way of describing physical activity or what…
May 26, 2020
5 Secrets to Cultivating Positive Body Image
“Mirror mirror on the wall, You don’t get to make the call Of who I am, or how I see,…
May 21, 2020
Pet Therapy: It’s Real.
When shelter in place became official, so did my status as a dog owner. Not exactly what I was expecting…
May 19, 2020
Unfound Joy and Laughter
I have been searching and yearning for joy and laughter in my journey of eating disorder recovery. I couldn’t remember…
May 14, 2020
Goal 2020 – ReWilding
Spring has sprung! Sort of, anyway. After the longest winters of the longest winters with a side-order of quarantine, many…
May 12, 2020
Everyone Has a Why
There’s a reason you ended up on this site. Whether you have a loved one with an eating disorder, you…
May 07, 2020
Where Alcoholism and Eating Disorders Meet: A Recovery Story
Are we going to make it through this time? Of course we are. We have already survived so much and…
May 05, 2020
A Letter to Athletes
Dear Athletes Endeavoring to Navigate this Current Global Crisis, To the competitors that were at the height of their careers,…
April 30, 2020
Navigating Recovery During a Pandemic: A Nurse’s Story
It seems safe to say that this past month has rocked our world. We worry for the health and safety…
April 28, 2020
Managing Stress with Effective Self-Care
My smartwatch keeps telling me my heart rate is elevated these days. It also keeps alerting me about a new…
April 14, 2020
Supporting Eating Disorder Recovery During COVID-19
As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and begin to define our “new normal”, it’s important to acknowledge the impact these…
April 11, 2020
Taking Back the Power From My Eating Disorder
I used to think that recovery was getting to a place in my life where I was no longer engaging…
April 09, 2020
10 Tips for Coping While You Practice Social Distancing
We are in a situation that most of us have never experienced. Amidst strict CDC recommendations to help contain the…
April 07, 2020
Stories of Eating Disorder Recovery: Celebrating 4 Years
Today I celebrate four years recovered, four years free from my demons, four years of living life without my eating…
April 04, 2020
Tips for Staying Connected During Social Distancing
If you’ve been working on recovery from your eating disorder, you are probably well aware of the importance of staying…
April 02, 2020
Reclaiming Ballet After Anorexia Recovery
I’ve loved ballet for as long as I can remember. As a toddler, I would use the safety rail on…
March 31, 2020
Self-Care in Difficult Times
When times get hard, especially like the trying times we're going through now, it can be easy to allow anxiety…
March 26, 2020
Taking a Pause to Sustain Recovery
The rules governing an eating disorder include a focus on body distortions, obsessive thoughts and a quest for perfection. When…
March 24, 2020
Can I Exercise During My Eating Disorder Recovery?
Movement and exercise play a complicated but important role in eating disorder treatment. Exercise, perhaps more than any other aspect…
March 12, 2020
8 Steps to Take Toward Recovery This Year
For those living with an eating disorder, maybe 2020 can be the year you start to work toward recovery. No…
March 05, 2020
Why a New Year does NOT mean a New YOU!
New year, new you? NOPE! It is the time of year when the airwaves are filled with messages of resolutions…
January 06, 2020
How Do We Navigate Negative Food and Body Image Talk?
As we celebrate the holidays, we are reunited with many family members and loved ones. We know from experience as…
December 30, 2019
Surviving the Holidays with an Eating Disorder
I’m sure we’ve all heard the song, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. No matter what holiday(s) you…
December 22, 2019
Four Tips for Reducing Negative Self-Talk
“I’m so disgusting. There’s no way I am going to this party tonight. All people are going to think about…
December 01, 2019
Seven SMASHing Years Later
Today, Southern Smash turns seven! I often get asked, “How did you start Southern Smash? How did you make it…
November 16, 2019
Eating Disorders and College: What’s the Connection?
The beginning of fall is often associated with the start of a new school year and for many the transition…
November 03, 2019
Gaining Confidence Through Clothing: A Recovery Story
Let’s keep it real, everyone wants to look good in whatever they’re wearing. Growing up, for others, affording a pair…
August 28, 2019
Healthy Communication in Eating Disorder Recovery
Not surprisingly, a major focus of therapy for people who have eating disorders is helping them to develop healthier ways…
July 27, 2019
Your Meal Plan: Build a Strong Foundation
I often ask my clients to think of their meal plan like the blueprints for building a house. Some parts…
July 01, 2019
The Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Grief
Experiencing a significant loss such as losing a loved one, a pet, a relationship, or a job can bring on…
June 04, 2019
Supporting a Loved One Through Mental Illness
It is likely you have been on either or both sides of this conversation. Most of us have found ourselves…
May 09, 2019
Where Mechanical Eating Meets Intuitive Eating
Eating disorders can be consuming and overwhelming. The process of recovery is often described as a roller-coaster of emotions that…
April 29, 2019
When is it an Eating Disorder and Not Disordered Eating?
We all have our idiosyncrasies around eating. So when do our behaviors around eating become a problem? When are our…
April 02, 2019
Why I Walk and Hope You will Too
I Walk for my family and the millions of families who have been experienced the devastation of a loved one…
February 19, 2019
Experiencing Emotions in Eating Disorder Recovery
"It seems like I am experiencing my feelings, now that I am no longer bingeing and purging my emotions”. This…
February 02, 2019
The Do’s and Don’ts of Supporting Your Spouse Through Recovery
I've read numerous articles about parental support and involvement in recovery for their loved ones with eating disorders. There's an…
January 16, 2019
My Recovery Journey: Getting Back on the Horse and Moving Forward
My story and recovery journey are a winding road, sometimes confusing, even to me. But luckily, I look forward to…
December 17, 2018
10 Recovery Tips and Strategies for Thriving during the Holiday Season
Are you finding an increase in anxiety due to the start of the holiday season? What comes to mind when…
November 19, 2018
Honored to be an Extraordinary Charity
The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness is proud to once again be named one of the 2019 Extraordinary Charities of…
November 14, 2018
Treating Patients with Eating Disorders: It Takes a Village
The treatment of eating disorders is one of healthcare’s most complex therapeutic pathways. Helping patients achieve recovery requires a sustained,…
October 22, 2018
A Lesson on Emotional Vulnerability: A Recovery Story
Sometimes I succeeded at motherhood and sometimes I failed – yet, always, I gave it my best try. By the…
October 15, 2018
The Art of Vulnerability
I don't have a Sam's club card, and sometimes, if I want to go, I'll show up to the warehouse,…
October 08, 2018
Learning to Embrace Your Anxiety
“If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” – Wayne Dyer For…
October 01, 2018