Eating disorders are one of the most common mental disorders, affecting over 30 million Americans. They have the 2nd highest mortality rate of any mental illness and can affect anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexuality, ability, and socioeconomic status. There are many disparities regarding the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders, including the fact that BIPOC folks are half as likely to receive treatment. Eating disorders are the third most common chronic illness among adolescent girls in the U.S., and 10 million men will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. (SingleCare, 2022).
While these statistics are serious and somber, it does not mean things have to be bleak. In fact, there are so many reasons to be hopeful about eating disorder recovery. That’s where the National Alliance of Eating Disorders comes in with their upcoming Not One More Weekend.
Here’s how The National Alliance of Eating Disorders describes Not One More Weekend in their own words: “Join this annual, global movement as we ensure that NOT ONE MORE life is lost, NOT ONE MORE child is taken, and NOT ONE MORE precious moment is destroyed by this insidious disease. Over this three-day weekend, help us continue to raise awareness and offer direct support to individuals and families across the country.” The National Alliance of Eating Disorders offers free weekly virtual therapy services for anyone 18+ to join, along with lots of other amazing resources you can learn more about here.
Follow along with OMM this weekend, February 25th-27th, as we highlight each day of Not One More Weekend!
February 25th, Day of Help: A day for folks impacted by eating disorders to make the brave choice of reaching out for help AND a day of raising awareness.
February 26th, Day of Support: A marathon day of virtual support groups for people experiencing eating disorders AND their loved ones. Please note: All sessions are 18+
February 27th, Day of Recovery: Join the Rally for Recovery at 6 pm EST to celebrate recovery and life beyond eating disorders.
Does your OMM Club want to get involved?
Our Minds Matter also has resources for you to share with your club and start the conversation. Check out these activities about body image & eating disorders, supporting a friend with an eating disorder, and how social media can impact our body image.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, you can call the NEDA hotline at 1-800-931-2237, text their textline at 800-931-2237, or call the Alliance’s referral line at 866-662-1235.
As the Not One More Weekend team says: “Recovery is Possible…and it’s Happening.”