Awareness and Prevention

Awareness of eating disorders is increasing. Now, there is less delay between the onset of symptoms and the referral for professional care. Prevention is still the gold standard to be achieved.

We know that talking about signs and symptoms of eating disorders does not prevent it, and may actually increase it. What is helpful is instilling a healthy body image in young people as well as eliminating the teasing about weight and body shape.

Young girls are encouraged to recognize their value as an individual and to develop lifelong healthy skills in fitness and good nutrition. They should learn that attractiveness based on social norms is a fragile basis for self-esteem.

Assertiveness training and the development of healthy self-esteem are goals that can help anyone with anyone with an eating disorder.

Reference:
Preventing Eating Disorders, A Handbook of Interventions and Special Challenges
Edited by Niva Piran, Michael P. Levine, Catherine Steiner-Adair
Published by Taylor and Francis, 1999