STOP STIGMA means share the truth: Eating disorders affect people of all genders, ages, races, professions, ethnicities, body shapes and weights, sexual orientations, immigration/citizen status and socioeconomic statuses. Eating disorders are brain-based illnesses, with biologic and genetic factors and can be treated!
START CARE means that early detection and early intervention with evidence-based treatment is critical. It also means that care can start regardless of how long you have been affected by an eating disorder.
Start Care also means that across the globe there is limited or no access to evidence based treatment in many areas, irrespective of a country’s income status. We see rural/urban divides, health care deserts, and lack of care across the globe.
To Start Care we call on countries to include evidence based treatment of eating disorders in national policy guidelines, establish or increase service delivery and training of providers, and for organizations to work together to ensure access.
TOGETHER means you are joining millions of us from 60+ countries around the world to Stop Stigma and Start Care. It means that families and friends, health care workers, clinicians, teachers and coaches, and governments have a role.
There is a persistent myth that people don't recover from eating disorders - that these illnesses are lifelong, or that hope is limited. The truth is that full recovery is possible. With early detection, compassionate support, and access to specialized care, people can and do health. Recovery isn't linear and it doesn't look the same for everyone, but it is real, and it is achieveable.
World Eating Disorders Action Day is a global awareness movement held every year on June 2. Founded in 2014 by individuals with lived experience and families, the day now brings organizations, communities, clinicians, researchers, and advocates from more than 50 countries to push for real change.
The goal is simple and urgent: to challenge harmful myths, break stigma, share evidence-based information, and advocate for stronger, more coherent systems of care.
Each year, communities across the world host events, webinars, campaigns, and conversations to amplify awareness and expand access to help.