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.
This year's campaign, Transforming the Narrative from Asks to Action, aims to help people understand the connection between Eating Disorders and other co-occurring conditions or intersections of disadvantage (e.g., mental health conditions, trauma, systemic issues), and to help people take action to support people affected.
Use #EDAW2023 on social media platforms to share your perspective on the type of action you want to see taken to help people who are affected by Eating Disorders. Our materials include sample scripts, tips for storytelling in text posts or video, and reminders aimed at helping you care for yourself and the people viewing your posts.
Attend an EDAW Action Hour to be in a virtual space with like-minded community members who want to make phone calls and send emails to decision-makers but find that hard when they're alone.
Learn about a national panel event we're hosting with change-makers in mental health to advocate for transformative shifts in policy on Tuesday, February 7th.
Are you a media member working in broadcast, digital, radio, print, or social? Our materials focus on sharing some key facts about Eating Disorders and offer strategies to help you and your team report on eating disorders responsibly – minimizing harm, dispelling myths, honouring experiences, and encouraging hope.
We have compiled a list of events happening during EDAW across the country, from coast-to-coast-to-coast. Learn more about events happening near you!
The BANA Magazine serves as a vehicle for clinicians, educators, and those across the mental health field nationally and internationally to learn about our community conversations in Canadian eating disorders and hear a variety of perspectives regarding awareness, wellness, and support. Visit the link below and share this free publication with those around you!
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
F.E.A.S.T. - Global
Hopewell Eating Disorder Support Centre - 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