Eating disorders are on the rise, affecting millions of people worldwide. In the age of social media, diet culture, and increased societal pressures, these serious mental health conditions are becoming more prevalent across all age groups. While often dismissed as a “teen issue,” eating disorders affect individuals of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. As a dietitian, I feel it’s crucial to highlight this growing concern and share actionable ways we can help those who are struggling.
Understanding Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that go beyond food and body image. Eating disorders change the way people think, feel and behave towards food as well as altering their relationship with their own body.
Why Are Eating Disorders Increasing?
Several societal shifts are contributing to the rise:
- Social Media Influence
Platforms like Instagram and TikTok often promote unrealistic beauty standards, leading to body dissatisfaction. Filters, photo editing, and “thinspiration” content can exacerbate these issues. - Diet Culture
From “clean eating” to extreme fitness trends, the glorification of restrictive diets and specific body types creates pressure to conform to unhealthy standards. Diet culture preaches “thinness” promotes the idea that thinness equals greater social status or likability. - Mental Health Struggles
Anxiety, depression, and trauma are strongly linked to the development of eating disorders. - COVID-19 Pandemic
The isolation and stress during the pandemic led to significant disruptions in eating habits, exacerbating pre-existing conditions and triggering new cases.
How You Can Help
Whether you’re a loved one, friend, or community member, your actions can make a difference.
1. Educate Yourself
No one chooses to have an eating disorder, this is such an important message to hear. Understanding eating disorders is the first step. Familiarize yourself with the signs, symptoms, and myths surrounding these conditions.
2. Avoid Harmful Language
Be very mindful of how you talk about food, weight, and body image. Avoid making comments about someone’s appearance or praising weight loss, as this can reinforce harmful behaviors.
3. Promote a Positive Relationship with Food
Encourage balance and variety rather than labeling foods as “good” or “bad.” Foster an environment where food is seen as nourishment, not a measure of worth.
4. Support Over Perfection
Instead of pressuring someone to change, approach each conversation with kindness, empathy and compassion. Recovery is a process that requires patience and understanding.
5. Advocate for Professional Help
Encourage those struggling to seek help from professionals, including therapists, dietitians, and medical providers specializing in eating disorders. Early intervention is key to recovery. Understand that medical intervention may be necessary. Eating disorders frequently cause malnutrition or electrolyte imbalance, so it is important to be examined by a physician to ensure your loved one is medically stable. Medical support may be necessary and can be an important component of recovery.
6. Be an Ally in Changing Culture
Challenge societal norms that glorify thinness or promote diet culture. Advocate for body diversity, media literacy, and mental health support in your community. Write letters, let your voice be heard and be part of the solution.
If You’re Struggling
If you or someone you know is battling an eating disorder, remember: you are not alone. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or professional. There are also numerous resources available, such as the National Eating Disorders Information Centre (NEDIC) or similar organizations in your area.
Conclusion
The rise in eating disorders is a call to action for all of us. By fostering understanding, compassion, and advocacy, we can help create a society where individuals feel supported in their journeys toward health and healing. Let’s work together to replace diet culture with a culture of kindness and inclusivity.
If you have questions or want to share your story, let’s start a conversation—because change begins with awareness and community.