We love a great nonprofit! The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), deals with a national crisis that I hold close to my heart, especially in terms of wellness. Eating disorders are no joke, and the pressure from beauty standards have left far too many people struggling with one… or two or three. Sometimes, in the process of trying to become healthier through exercise and healthful eating, we become more focused on the appearance of our bodies rather than all of the other positive benefits.

Unfortunately, the fitness industry has played a huge part in these national beauty standards, among many other contributors. While I am all about going to the gym and workin’ on my fitness (as Fergie would say), the media has created this idea that working out and eating healthy will eventually result in the body of a model. For most bodies, this is just not true, unless you dedicate your life to the gym.

And who’s got time for that?

I sure don’t. But these beauty/body standards… They affect us deeply. And that’s why 20 million women and 10 million men in the U.S. will find themselves dealing with an eating disorder.

This is why we need great organizations like NEDA. They’re the largest nonprofit in the eating disorder community, and their mission is to rid the world of these tough mental illnesses through providing support and raising awareness.

Why did I choose NEDA?

Because they are reminding the world of something very important: The stereotypes around eating disorders just aren’t true.

At the forefront of our awareness building is a focus on removing the stigma and the stereotypes surrounding eating disorders and on sending a message that people of all sizes, races, genders, sexual identities, abilities, and in any socioeconomic status can struggle are deserving of care.

– NEDA

NEDA wants everyone with an eating disorder, no matter who they are, to feel welcome and cared about. No wonder they have been so successful. They have a helpline that anyone can call, and they also do instant messaging! And, they have an online screening tool for people ages 13 and up (how cool is that?) that will let them know if they should be seeking professional help. In 2018, they had over 14,000 contacts on their helpline, and over 230,000 completed screenings.

They have held regional conferences that open up discussion about eating disorders to those who are in recovery or currently going through it. In 2018, they advocated for increased federal funding for research on eating disorders, and got $5 million put towards it!

They are helping so many people, guys. This just makes my heart so happy. There are resources out there, and people who have dedicated their lives to this cause.

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If you or someone you know is going through an eating disorder, please check out NEDA’s website here. You can also call their helpline at (800) 931-2237 or chat with someone online here.