The Oscars and my ED
Student LifeI was ten years old the first time I was fascinated by celebrities. I was in a grocery store aisle, immersed in a magazine determined to look like the women in these magazines no matter the cost. Looking at these images was not the…
Here’s How to Make Sports Body-Positive
Student LifeI didn’t start out as a runner. I started out as a girl who loved being outside with my sisters and going on adventures in our backyard. I started out as a chaser of many things including animals, sisters, and boys on the playground. Being…
How Does Social Media Affect Your Body Image?
Body Image, Student LifeSocial media sites like Facebook and Twitter have become a huge part of most teens’ lives. But do they help or hurt our self-esteem and body image? We asked. You answered. A recent CNN article explored how we are now exposed to…
High School Gym Class
Student LifeHigh school gym class: unfortunately, we’ve all been there. The smelly uniforms and overly competitive students were bad, but the unhealthy and unhelpful lessons many take away are far worse. Gym teachers (sometimes because of requirements…
Letter to Your Principal
Student LifeHigh school can be a difficult enough place on its own, and it can be an even bigger minefield when you or a friend is struggling with an eating disorder. On the flip side, this can help to inform the school administration of your concerns…
Social Media Cheat Sheet
Student LifeSocial media is a great tool for connecting with others. However, it can also be a dangerous space for people with eating disorders. This is a cheat-sheet to help you: Help a friend struggling with an eating disorder on social media. Be…
How Do I Open up About My Eating Issues?
Student LifeDisordered eating is when your food, weight, and/or body size lead to strict eating and exercise habits then threaten your health, safety, and happiness. While most people think they’ve got it under control, these habits can quickly progress…
Eating Disorders Among LGBTQ Youth
LGBTQIA+, Research, Special Topics, Student LifeNEDA and the Trevor Project teamed up on a national survey to better understand how LGBTQ+ youth are affected by eating disorders. We found that a majority of those surveyed have been diagnosed with an eating disorder and more than 75% suspect…
Learning to Live Well with Depression and Eating Disorders
Recovery, Student LifeThe relationship between eating disorders and depression is a complex problem to understand, treat, and research. The parable of the three blind men who encounter an elephant illustrates the problem faced by patients and their providers. It…