One of my posts today is about why I don't talk about my ED recovery more, and I did not realize that this week is also "National Eating Disorders Awareness Week." I didn't get the memo until just now. My timing is off. My bad.
I just want to emphasize that learning more about Eating Disorders and ways you can help and spread the word is very important especially if you or a loved one is currently in the midst of an ED.
There are some who are concerned about how the Internet and places like MySpace and Facebook are contributing to a raising glorification of Pro Ana and Mia messages which yes, I can see the concern, but personally, I think the Internet is a place loaded with way more information and education on recovery from EDs, and the dangers of EDs.
As someone in recovery or thinking about it, you can go to these Pro Ana and Mia sites and see just how much in pain these girls are, and decide if that is how you want to live your life. Most would say no, and some will say yes. Ultimately, we all choose the way we want to life regardless of what is happening around us. Humans are empowered, and at any time we can choose something different, and something better for ourselves and those around us. You choose.
There are also countless blogs of people who are talking about their recovery, and for someone who is afraid to ask for help just yet, roaming around the Internet anonymously to see what people are talking about helps to take away much of the stigma and fear. I think today's girls have that advantage. When my bulimia was the worst during my early 20's, I did not have the Internet like it is today. Amazon and Yahoo didn't even exist yet when I was in college.
Had I the access to blogs, forums, and social sites, I think my healing would have progressed much further because I would have felt less alone and less like some piece of damaged goods. My head was really in a serious self-loathing place back then. It would have been great to be able to connect with others like me, and other people who would offer support and love. I share this not to feel bad for myself, but to emphasize what great abundance for those who are suffering have access to. You don't have to suffer alone and in silence any more.
