February is a Month of Healing
By Jadyn Jones
February 23rd to the 29th is National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, our goal is to remind others that your worth is not defined by your body or appearance. Eating disorders affect more than 70 million people worldwide and the numbers are still rising. We are here to provide resources that offer information, support, and assistance to both raise awareness and help those in need.
The following is a list of resources that are most convenient; just a call, text, or a click away.
A Call Away: The National Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness Lifeline is a crisis hotline that is reachable at 1-866-662-1235 and is available Monday – Friday, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm EST. This helpline provides compassionate assistance on the journey to healing and recovery for those struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, body image issues, or other eating disorders. For a 24/7 helpline, you can dial Michigan’s suicide and crisis hotline at 988.
A Text Away: For those who prefer text-based communication, the Crisis Text Line is a valuable resource. By texting “HOME” to 741741, individuals can access a network of trained crisis counselors who offer help and support via text messages. This service is available 24/7, providing immediate assistance to those in crisis.
A Click Away: There are several websites that provide additional resources and bring awareness to various eating disorders:
- National Eating Disorder Association has several resources available designed for everyone whether you’re looking to help yourself, a loved one, a student, and many more: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
- National Alliance for Eating Disorders has resources and information on how to help heal and grow from having an eating disorder: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/
- Eating Disorder Hope has educational information on over 10 types of eating disorders and has various treatment options available: https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/
Food is extremely important and it’s important to establish a healthy and balanced relationship with it. Food contains several nutrients that are essential for our everyday needs. Our bodies require these nutrients for energy and growth. Without them, both our physical and mental health decreases, impacting our relationships with ourselves, others, as well as impacting our lifestyles.
February is not only a month that raises awareness of eating disorders, it is a month of healing. A Pathway to Joy is here to help raise awareness and support individuals who need it most. Our mission is to create a world where each individual feels understood and empowered to seek help and live a life filled with hope and purpose. Please continue to join us on our journey to help others on their own Pathway to JOY.
You are not alone!