Key Messages

Key Messages Of World Eating Disorder Action Day

• Advocate for early intervention and evidence-based treatment.
• Affirm parents/families as key players in their children’s/loved one’s treatment and recovery.
• Call for increased diversity in research, narratives, media, and professionals working in the field, so as to uplift marginalized communities and underrepresented global regions.
• Address the lack of access to affordable, culturally competent, representative and comprehensive care among underserved populations.
• Promote that eating disorders are treatable at all ages/stages.

This year’s theme is “Eating Disorders: “RealPeopleRealRecovery” and underscores the critical need for families/caregivers and health care workers to intervene EARLY for the best shot at full recovery.  And for countries, policy makers and programs to ACT NOW to ensure access to quality, affordable, evidence based treatment services. 

Visit the Get Involved page to find out how you can join us in making a difference!

As part of a larger effort to increase World Eating Disorder Action Day’s global presence, we are encouraging activists around the world to create and facilitate events in their local communities.

Below are three intentionally broad categories to help spark some ideas that may help you engage your communities.

1. On June 2^nd, post a photo with anyone who has been affected by an eating disorder or who supports those in recovery. Don’t forget to include this year’s hashtag #RealPeopleRealRecovery
2. Educate others.
   • Distribute AED’s Medical Care Standards Guide (available in pdf in multiple languages) in doctors’ offices
   • Distribute the Nine Truths About Eating Disorders to friends and family
   • Ask your legislator to light up a local monument in purple
   • Ask your legislator to allocate funding for eating disorder research and prevention in local schools
   • If you feel safe, share your story and have a conversation about eating disorders with friends and/or family members
   • If you feel safe, share your story on Facebook or Instagram Live.
   • Body image and eating disorder awareness workshop at a local school
   • Interviews with local radio and TV stations
   • Article in local newspapers
   • Music or art event to raise money for an eating disorder non-profit that works to spread awareness about eating disorders
   • Tell others how to get screened for an eating disorder
3. Support someone who is in recovery from an eating disorder or their caregiver(s).
   • Send homemade cards
   • Get together with others and make care packages to send to local treatment centers
   • Write and send positive affirmations
   • Host a paint night or other event to raise money for a eating disorder organization or treatment center or someone who needs funds to access treatment
   • Donate art or arts and crafts supplies to treatment centers

To try to make these events as recovery oriented as possible, we suggest not doing any sporting events such as walks or runs.