Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions characterized by patterns of eating, thoughts, and emotions related to food and body image. They can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, and they often stem from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

There are several types of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, OSFED, and this year’s focus: ARFID. Each presents its own challenges and risks, but they all share the common feature of disrupting a person’s relationship with food and their body.

When is Eating Disorder Awareness Week 2024?

Eating Disorder Awareness Week typically occurs in late February or early March each year. In 2024, Eating Disorder Awareness Week takes place from Monday, February 26th to Sunday, March 3rd. This designated time provides an opportunity for people to engage in meaningful discussions, participate in educational activities, and show support for those living with disordered eating.

What is Eating Disorder Awareness Week?

Eating Disorder Awareness Week is an annual event dedicated to raising awareness about eating disorders, reducing stigma, and providing support to those affected by disordered eating. It’s a time for communities to come together to educate, advocate, and promote understanding of the complexities of EDs.

During this week, various organizations, healthcare professionals, advocates, and individuals around the world collaborate to host events, share resources, and initiate conversations about eating disorders and their impact on individuals and society as a whole.

This year, BEAT have selected ARFID as a theme, in order to provide more education and raise awareness on an eating disorder that often goes under the radar.

What is ARFID?

ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, is a lesser-known eating disorder characterized by an extreme avoidance or restriction of certain foods or food groups. Unlike other eating disorders where the focus may be on body image or weight, individuals with ARFID may experience their symptoms due to sensory issues, fear of choking or vomiting, or a lack of interest in food.

Eating Disorder Awareness Week serves as a vital opportunity to shed light on the prevalence, complexity, and impact of eating disorders, including lesser-known conditions like ARFID. By fostering understanding, compassion, and support, we can work towards a world where individuals affected by eating disorders receive the care and support they need to heal and thrive.

Open Door’s Team Mysa: Lydia and Olivia.

What is Mysa?

Mysa is Open Door’s eating disorder support group open to anyone aged 18+ who is living with disordered eating – no diagnosis necessary. Sessions take place every other Thursday from 5:30 – 7pm at the Bloom Building. Through Mysa, we’ve created a non-clinical and understanding space to discuss, share, and look to the future.

If you are living with disordered eating, join Mysa, our no-diagnosis-necessary support group here.