National Eating Disorder Awareness Week falls on the last week of February from the 23rd to March 1st. Eating disorders are extremely serious and even deadly, therefore talking about them is extremely important, specifically in this day and age with social media ruling our lives. The toxicity of the media only showing the “perfect image” and what is the ideal look for society, causes people to compare themselves to unrealistic standards. These exact standards are what fuels an unhealthy relationship with your body. Eating disorders are not uncommon and many go undiagnosed since social media pushes diet culture onto us all and it is not talked about enough.

At NDB, I have personally heard many stories of girls not only struggling with their self-image but especially their issues with disordered eating. It is no secret that everyone has their insecurities, but teenage girls commonly face self-doubt and feelings of unworthiness. NDB cultivates a hardworking and challenging learning environment that pushes girls to reach their full potential. However, this also leads to an extremely competitive nature in the school. Sadly, a competitive environment is the perfect breeding ground for eating disorders to thrive and worsen.

Humans are naturally comparative people, whether it be comparing clothes, GPAs, or follower counts, it all comes instinctively. So when mixed with the growing popularity of social media, it is even easier for people to see something that makes them feel bad every time they check their phone. However, eating disorders make these comparisons that more dangerous. Eating disorders are extremely competitive so in places that encourage competition, such as social media and Bay Area schools, it is no wonder they are so common.

My overall point is not that social media and competitive schools have to be viewed as a negative thing for anyone struggling with disordered eating, but that there needs to be an understanding and switch of focus. There are social media accounts out there that directly focus on pushing body positivity and healing self-image issues that can lead to eating disorders and we as people need to promote those accounts. Let’s turn against our nature and build ourselves up instead of bringing our beautiful selves down.

For those who are interested in learning more or receiving the help they may need, here are some great resources:
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eating-disorders/in-depth/eating-disorder-treatment/art-20046234