Brad Lamm, CIP
Next week is Eating Disorder Awareness Week, where the community of those afflicted and their loved ones reach their hearts and hands across the nation to spread hope to those who struggle with eating disorders.
This is a cause close to my heart. At one time in my life, bulimia brought me to my knees. What I know now, is that it is possible to recover from this seemingly hopeless disease. I did. And I’ve learned that one of the key components to recovery is knowing the signs and symptoms of the illness before they have a chance to turn into a life-altering course.
If you check out NEDA awareness week, you’ll discover that this year, the theme of the week is ‘I had no idea,’ pointing to the common adage many people experience when they learn the ins and outs of this disease. Each day of the week is devoted to different behaviors that families and friends can look for and learn about, from anorexia to binge eating disorder. Early intervention is the key to prevention; sometimes even the sufferer doesn’t understand the consequences of their seemingly innocuous behaviors.
There are many ways to get involved. Besides educating yourself, and those you care about, on how this complex and pervasive disease progresses, get curious about how the media represents eating disorders (supermodels, actors, and athletes just for starters) and how you can be vigilant in keeping those around you safe.
Possibly the most powerful thing you can do is to keep hope alive for those of us who face this uphill battle. There are many ways to recover and you don’t have to go it alone. Head over to www.NEDAwareness.org today and check it out.
