Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW) is February 1 – 7, 2017
It can be hard to value our bodies due to the messages from media that sells us the idea that we are less than the images we see. Sometimes these messages come from other places as well: our peers, our coaches, our doctors or our families. It’s important to find ways of caring for ourselves, after all, we are supposed to value our bodies. It’s good for us, and we all deserve to feel healthy and beautiful for whom we truly are.
We know that through open, supportive dialogue, we can help break the shame, stigma and silence that affect nearly a million Canadians living with a diagnosed eating disorder – and the millions of others struggling with food and weight preoccupation. Our message can bring important information about these mental illnesses to people across the country and spread hope to those affected.
Raise awareness, organize an event or share resources to support people living with eating disorders or those struggling with their body image. Use the hashtags #NotAChoice and #EDAW2017 (#SEMTA2017 in French) to get the word out.
Are you or someone you know living with an eating disorder and need support? Check out one of these resources:
Eating Disorders Manitoba ~ Provides resources and supports for people in Manitoba.
National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC) ~ Supports and resources for people from all over Canada. They also run the NEDIC Helpline. It’s free to call and open Monday-Friday 8am-8pm 1-866-633-4220.
