Eating Disorders affect people of all genders, sexual orientations, ages, socioeconomic class, abilities, races, and ethnic backgrounds. That is why, from February 1st to 7th every year, Eating Disorder groups across Canada unite to commemorate Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW) with a national week of action focused on educating the public about Eating Disorders.
It is a time to escalate awareness of the impact of Eating Disorders, the dangerous stereotypes and myths, and the supports available for people living with or affected by them.
EDAW is a collective effort, from coast-to-coast-to-coast. Organizations around the country are set to host local events, light notable landmarks in the colour purple, and engage in public education campaigns.
Building on the “Eating Disorders Can’t Afford to Wait” theme, this year's EDAW committee decided to go with: “What happened while we waited?” as the primary message for 2021. We believe that this is a way for us to talk about all of the nuances of this time — the negative and positive implications of the pandemic — while also holding space for those who have been waiting for a long time for the care they deserve.
The materials below were created in collaboration with the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association, Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta, Looking Glass Foundation for Eating Disorders, National Initiative for Eating Disorders, Sheena's Place, and the Waterloo-Wellington Eating Disorders Coalition, with support from Body Brave and Eating Disorders NS.
We have compiled a list of events happening during EDAW across the country, from coast-to-coast. Click the link below to find out about event information near you!
This year, we're hoping to spread public awareness and education about three main messages:
Help raise awareness by sharing the graphics lived below with people who matter to you and contribute to the community conversation on Eating Disorders.
Let's build momentum!
Across the country, we're recognizing the extraordinary challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced for people with Eating Disorders and for those who provide support, such as loved ones and healthcare providers. Awareness at all levels of government is increasing.
We've prepared a template letter which is easy to customize to ensure your elected representatives know the urgency of this issue as it impacts you and your community.
Enter your address at the top. When you press 'send my email', the letter will go to your elected representatives, copying you on the e-mail. Please send the link below to everyone in your network, ask them to contact their representatives, and watch the number of 'emails sent' grow!
Every email sent says to someone who suffers:
"We understand. You are not alone."
Click here to download a social media graphic to tell others about our campaign.
For individuals seeking help and treatment options, the NEDIC helpline and instant chat is staffed Monday to Thursday, 9:00am to 9:00pm and Friday, 9:00am to 5:00pm EST. Call toll-free at 1-866-633-4220, or 416-340-4156 in Toronto.
This work would not be possible without the support of our partners around the country. Please visit their websites to find more information and local support:
Alyssa Stevenson Memorial Trust - Manitoba
Anorexia and Bulimia Québec (ANEB) - Québec
Body Brave - Ontario
BridgePoint Center for Eating Disorders - Saskatchewan
Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association (BANA) - Ontario
Danielle's Place - Ontario
Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador - Newfoundland and Labrador
Eating Disorders Nova Scotia - Nova Scotia
Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta (EDSNA) - Alberta
Family Services British Columbia - British Columbia
F.E.A.S.T. - Global
Hopewell - Ontario
Jessie's Legacy - British Columbia
Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre - British Columbia
Looking Glass Foundation for Eating Disorders - British Columbia
National Initiative for Eating Disorders - Ontario
Sheena’s Place - Ontario
Silver Linings Foundation - Alberta
Waterloo-Wellington Eating Disorders Coalition (WWEDC) - Ontario
WaterStone Foundation - Ontario
Women’s Health Clinic - Manitoba
