Imagine sitting at a dinner table, laughter and conversation filling the air, yet feeling completely disconnected. Your plate is full, but your mind is elsewhere, trapped in a relentless cycle of numbers, calories, and an invisible pressure to meet impossible expectations.
Eating disorders go far beyond food. They are complex mental health conditions that shape how a person sees themselves, their body, and their self-worth. They are not a choice or a phase, but serious illnesses that affect millions across the world, including students, friends, and possibly even you.
On the surface, someone struggling with an eating disorder might appear "fine”. They may keep up with daily life, attend classes, and share meals with friends. But beneath that, there is often a silent struggle, one filled with anxiety, self-doubt, and an unrelenting pursuit of perfection. And contrary to common belief, eating disorders do not discriminate. They affect people of all genders, backgrounds, and body types.
Recovery is possible, but it requires compassion, understanding, and support. Seeking help—whether from a friend, a professional, or a support group, is a powerful first step. No one should have to face this battle alone. Our society constantly bombards us with unrealistic beauty standards, making it easy to fall into toxic relationships with food and body image. But change starts with awareness. Through education and open conversations, we can break the stigma and build a culture where self-acceptance and kindness replace shame and judgment.
If you or someone you know is struggling, know this: you are not defined by your disorder. Healing is not linear, but every step forward, no matter how small, matters. Speak up. Reach out. And above all, be gentle with yourself. You deserve kindness, especially from yourself.
Leonardo Brecchia