Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses, caused by a combination of environmental, biological, and psychological factors. While our environment is only a part of the equation, it is important to look at the ways it does contribute, and what we can do to change it.
We are constantly bombarded with the message “Thinner is better.” Our casual conversations about weight loss, unrealistic expectations portrayed in the media, and diet culture are all environmental factors that can contribute to body image issues, and in some instances, eating disorders. Most of us hear comments like “I had a huge lunch–I’ll need to work that off later!” or “I look so fat” on a daily basis. Additionally, we’re exposed to social media highlight reels (often featuring very carefully shot and edited photos), diet ads, and Hollywood’s worship of people who are one very specific body type every time we reach for our screens.
It’s so pervasive that it can almost feel like background noise. And that’s insidious because these messages filter into our collective consciousness without our knowledge. But that doesn’t mean it’s right, and it doesn’t mean it should be normalized. Fortunately, we are starting to see more and more pressure on media outlets to be inclusive of all shapes and sizes, to eliminate the use of Photoshop to alter bodies, and to stop encouraging unhealthy body standards for actors and models. Change is happening slowly but surely.
But what can we, as individuals, do to change our environment right now? How can we promote a healthier environment, as well as support loved ones who may be struggling with an eating disorder? Changing the way we talk about food, weight, and body image is a great place to start.
Here are some things we can all do every day to help change the conversation:
Adapted from: Neumark-Sztainer D, “I’m, Like, SO Fat!”: Helping Your Teen Make Healthy Choices about Eating and Exercise in a Weight Obsessed World. New York: The Guilford Press; 2005.
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