"It's Time to Talk About It"

February 20-26 is the National Eating Disorder Awareness Week.  The aim of

NEDAwareness Week is to ultimately prevent eating disorders and body image issues while reducing the stigma surrounding eating disorders and improving access to treatment.

This year, NEDA asked everyone to do just one thing to help raise awareness and provide accurate information about eating disorders.  Jenni Schaefer, Ambassador for the National Eating Disorder Association recounts the importance of spreading such awareness:

“When I was struggling, I can only imagine what a simple message about recovery from a stranger—online or in person—could have done for me. I might have gained the courage to break through the denial and get help sooner than I did. Of course, I can’t go back and change my past, but I can be grateful for ultimately achieving a full recovery. And I can also do one thing now to help others. Won’t you join me?” –Jenni Schaefer, Ambassador for the National Eating Disorder Association

There are many ways to raise awareness; NEDA suggests attending an awareness event, using twitter or other social media to spread awareness, or even simply talking to a friend.  For more information about National Eating Disorder Week, please visit http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.  Also, consider visiting NEDA’s facebook page.