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By Josh Hall

HELP IS AVAILABLE

Support groups available through EDSNA for those experiencing eating disorders

Aug 25, 2023 | 2:55 PM

CALGARY, AB – The Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta (EDSNA) is hoping students and families across the province will consider the unique challenges posed by eating disorders in the run-up of back to school.

They are offering more support groups in the coming weeks and months for those in need.

Somewhere between 10 and 20 per cent of women, and a slightly smaller percentage of men, in college suffer from an eating disorder. These may include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating, avoidance/restrictive food intake disorder and others.

They may arise for several reasons, biological, social and/or psychological in nature, and returning to school can be a trigger — specifically for these reasons:

· Lack of access to a variety of foods

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· Unstructured meal times

· Academic pressure

· Peer pressure an· Sports and athletics

· Puberty

· Social media

· New independence in college/university

· Change of routine

· Financial pressure

“Returning to school, or starting school for the first time is an exciting but stressful time. Unfortunately, some may experience an eating disorder or disordered eating for the first time or experience a return/elevation of symptoms due to a number of factors,” says Angie Mellen, acting executive director.

“You do not have to face this alone. The Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta is here to offer support and resources for anyone experiencing an eating disorder or disordered eating, along with their family, friends, loved ones and caregivers.”

Mellen notes that eating disorders are serious and can be deadly.

“Eating disorders are incredibly isolating and lonely, not only for people experiencing an eating disorder or disordered eating but for their loved ones as well,” she says. “EDSNA is hoping to reduce isolation, decrease feelings of shame and stigma and increase feelings of hope and optimism by providing support groups, resources and direction on how to navigate the healthcare system.”

Between 2000 and 2018, according to The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, global eating disorder prevalence increased from 3.4 per cent to 7.8 per cent.

The EDSNA offers its support groups in Calgary, Edmonton and online. To learn more, visit edsna.ca.d bullying

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now.

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