Eating Disorder Myths and Facts by Sharon Mathiason

I hope that everyone enjoyed the service for Mental Health Sunday and the presentation by Joe Gerard.  In Joe’s message we learned a little about his mental illness and a lot about the importance of a caring congregation in healing.  As we work to become a WISE church in name and practice, it’s important that we continue to expand our awareness.  For this month, I’ll provide some myths and facts about eating disorders.

Many people do not think that eating disorders are serious.  But, in fact, they have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness.  It’s currently estimated that, in the United States, 23 people die every day from eating disorders.

Many people believe that eating disorders only affect young females.  Males suffer, too, and are often misdiagnosed.  About 25% of people suffering from anorexia and bulimia are male.

Another fact that surprises many people is that our military is seeing an increase in eating disorders at a rate of 6 times the civilian population.  Last year, part of the military budget was set aside for research into this alarming rate.

It’s true that many sufferers die from the physical effects of an eating disorder.  It’s also true that people with eating disorders are 57 times more likely to die from suicide than their peers.

In this diet conscious world, it’s important to remember what you say in front of your children.  Here is an excerpt from my daughter’s journal:

June 30, 2003 09:00 pm

“My mom is more obsessed with weight than ever (or do i just notice it more now?) I mean seriously, she always talks about losing weight, about being a "fat slob" etc...no wonder i learned at such a young age to hate/fear fat. I dunno, it kinda gets to me...”

I didn’t cause Jenn’s disorder, but I certainly didn’t help.  Fat shaming, whether it’s ourselves or others, is never appropriate.  According to the National Eating Disorders Association, 1 in 4 people who go on a diet will develop an eating disorder.  Make sure your child or friend or loved one or yourself is not that one in four.

Finally, and maybe most importantly, you can’t tell someone has an eating disorder by looking at them.  For 5 of Jenn’s 10 year struggle we thought she was okay because she wasn’t overly thin.  We were very wrong.

There are brochures in the Narthex which will help you recognize signs and symptoms.  The library in the lounge has a good book with true stories about the struggles.  And, of course, I can help point you to professionals and other materials.

Take care and be WISE.