Why Eating Disorders Awareness Week Matters in 2026  

We are excited to participate in Eating Disorders Awareness Week, this Monday, February 23 to Sunday, March 1, 2026! We are celebrating “Fighting for Change, Committing to Change,” a campaign led by Collaborative of Eating Disorders Organizations (CEDO). Monte Nido aims to spread the message of understanding, support, and unity both within the eating disorder community and for those who don’t know what it’s like to live with an eating disorder.    

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Key Takeaways  

• Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2026 centers on the theme “Fighting for Change, Committing to Change” emphasizing equity, inclusion, and action in eating disorder care.  
  

• Eating disorders affect people of all body sizes, genders, races, ages, and identities, yet many individuals remain overlooked due to stigma and bias.  
  

• Harmful stereotypes and weight-based assumptions often delay diagnosis and prevent people from accessing timely, life-saving treatment.  
  

• Community, connection, and shared advocacy play a critical role in reducing stigma and improving access to evidence-based care.  
  

• Support is available, recovery is possible, and everybody deserves to be seen, believed, and supported—during Awareness Week and beyond.  

What ‘Fighting for Change, Committing to Change’ Means  

“Fighting for Change, Committing to Change” reflects both urgency and responsibility. It recognizes that meaningful progress in eating disorder care requires more than awareness—it demands sustained action.  

Fighting for change means challenging long-standing myths, inequities, and systems that exclude or overlook people who do not fit outdated stereotypes. Committing to change means translating that awareness into ongoing efforts: improving access to care, expanding education, and holding ourselves accountable for creating treatment environments that are inclusive, evidence-based, and responsive to diverse lived experiences. Together, these commitments push the field forward beyond conversation and toward lasting impact.  

Fighting Harmful Stereotypes About Eating Disorders  

We are aiming to reach as many people as possible who may not be aware of these life-threatening mental illnesses. It is important to be aware of the types of eating disorders, as well as common signs and symptoms to look out for in yourself and your loved ones. Catching an eating disorder early is key to recovery and we hope you learn something new from this information.  

Why Bias and Assumptions Delay Diagnosis and Treatment  

Bias and assumptions play a significant role in delaying eating disorder diagnosis and treatment. When clinicians, caregivers, or communities rely on narrow ideas about what eating disorders “look like,” symptoms are more likely to be missed or dismissed. Assumptions tied to body size, gender, age, race, or identity can lead to misinterpretation of behaviors, with serious consequences for health and recovery.  

For example, individuals in larger bodies may be praised for weight loss rather than screened for disordered eating, while men or older adults may not be assessed at all. These biases can also shape treatment recommendations, steering people away from appropriate levels of care.  

Addressing these delays requires intentional reflection, expanded screening practices, and a commitment to weight-inclusive, identity-affirming approaches that prioritize symptoms, safety, and lived experience over appearance-based judgments.  

What is an Eating Disorder?  

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that involve disturbances in eating behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. The most common types include binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. These disorders are multifaceted and can be influenced by a combination of factors, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural influences. Each individual’s experience with an eating disorder is unique, and there is no single cause, making these conditions complex to understand and navigate.  

Eating disorders can be life-threatening, and affect individuals of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. It’s crucial to recognize that these disorders do not define a person. People struggling with eating disorders are much more than their condition, and recovery is always possible. These challenges, while difficult, can be overcome with the right support and treatment.  

Understanding Different Types of Eating Disorders  

Understanding the different types of eating disorders can help you identify struggles in yourself or your loved ones. Gaining this knowledge is an important first step toward recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate help. No matter the disorder, it’s important to know that support is available and recovery is within reach for everyone affected.  

Anorexia Nervosa  

Anorexia nervosa, often referred to simply as anorexia, comes with an intense fear of gaining weight, and involves behaviors like fasting, limiting food, or engaging in extreme exercise routines. For some, it also includes the use of diuretics or laxatives, or even vomiting after meals. A few signs and symptoms to look for in anorexia are a distorted body image, food restriction, obsessive thoughts about weight, food, and calories, and feelings of guilt or shame after eating.  

Bulimia Nervosa  

Bulimia nervosa, also referred to as bulimia, is an eating disorder that often involves feelings of shame, guilt, and a lack of control around food. This disorder is characterized by periods of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, which can have serious physical and psychological consequences. If you or someone you care about is struggling, some common signs and symptoms are going to the bathroom right after eating, engaging in harsh exercise routines, eating in secret or hiding food, and a fear of not being able to stop eating.  

Binge Eating Disorder (BED)  

Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period, accompanied by a lack of control over eating. Those with BED may eat rapidly, often until uncomfortably full, and may eat even when not physically hungry. They may feel embarrassed, disgusted, or guilty afterward, leading to eating alone or in secret. Unlike other eating disorders, BED does not involve compensatory behaviors like purging.  

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)  

Individuals living with ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, often experience food aversions, significant anxiety around eating, or simply a lack of interest in food altogether. These restrictive eating behaviors go far beyond being a 'picky eater'—they impact both mental and physical health. ARFID involves severely limited calorie intake due to rigid and restrictive eating habits, leading to growth delays, weight loss, and malnutrition at any age. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by a fear of weight gain or a desire to be thin.  

Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)  

OSFED is an eating disorder that encompasses five types of eating disorders according to the DSM-5: atypical anorexia nervosa, sub-threshold bulimia nervosa, sub-threshold binge eating disorder, purging disorder and night eating syndrome. OSFED is a serious condition requiring treatment. Characteristics of OSFED include significant distress or impairment due to eating behaviors or negative body image, similar symptoms to atypical anorexia, purging disorder, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, and symptoms do not meet the full criteria for other eating disorders  

Who Has Historically Been Overlooked in Eating Disorder Treatment?  

Eating Disorders in People of All Body Sizes  

Eating disorders have long been misunderstood as conditions that only affect people in smaller bodies. This narrow perception has contributed to missed diagnoses, delayed treatment, and inadequate care for individuals in larger bodies.  

Many people experience serious eating disorder symptoms, such as restriction, binge eating, or purging, without appearing underweight, which can lead providers to overlook or minimize their distress. Weight-based assumptions may also result in harmful recommendations that prioritize weight loss over medical and psychological stability.  

Recognizing that eating disorders occur across the weight spectrum is essential for improving early identification, reducing stigma, and ensuring that treatment focuses on behaviors, health, and well-being rather than appearance alone.  

Eating Disorders in Men, Boys, and Masculine-Identifying Individuals  

Men, boys, and masculine-identifying individuals have historically been underrepresented in eating disorder research and treatment spaces. Cultural stereotypes that frame eating disorders as “women’s illnesses” can discourage individuals from recognizing symptoms or seeking help.  

When men do enter treatment, their experiences may be misunderstood, particularly when concerns center on muscularity, performance, or rigid exercise rather than thinness. These gaps can lead to delayed diagnosis and increased shame. Expanding awareness and provider education is critical to ensuring that eating disorder care is accessible, affirming, and responsive to the ways symptoms may present differently across gender identities and expressions.  

Eating Disorders in LGBTQIA+ Communities  

LGBTQIA+ individuals experience eating disorders at disproportionately high rates, yet their needs have often been overlooked in traditional treatment models. Minority stress, discrimination, body surveillance, and experiences of gender dysphoria can all contribute to eating disorder risk, while lack of affirming care can create barriers to treatment.  

Many individuals report fears of misgendering, invalidation, or having their identity misunderstood in clinical settings. Without culturally informed providers, treatment may fail to address the underlying stressors driving symptoms. Inclusive, identity-affirming care is essential for supporting recovery and building trust within LGBTQIA+ communities.  

Eating Disorders Across Race, Culture, and Age  

Eating disorder stereotypes have historically centered white, young, affluent individuals, obscuring how these conditions affect people across racial, cultural, and age groups. As a result, eating disorders in older adults, people of color, and individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds are often underrecognized or misdiagnosed.  

Cultural norms, language barriers, and unequal access to care can further complicate identification and treatment. Age-related assumptions may also lead providers to overlook symptoms in midlife or later adulthood. Addressing these gaps requires culturally responsive care, expanded screening, and treatment approaches that reflect the full diversity of lived experience.  

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The Power of Community: Connecting & Unifying for Recovery  

Being part of a community in eating disorder recovery helps to navigate the ups and downs of the recovery journey where having a supportive network can make all the difference. Connecting with others who share similar experiences provides a sense of understanding that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether through group therapy, support groups, or online communities, knowing you're not alone in your struggles can reduce feelings of isolation and shame. The shared experience of others fosters empathy and validation, which can be essential for healing.  

Raising awareness also helps break down stigma. Eating disorders are often misunderstood or dismissed, which can prevent people from seeking the help they need. By coming together, the community can educate others, raise awareness, and advocate for better access to care. Through collective strength, those in recovery can feel empowered to not only focus on their own journey but also contribute to a larger movement that challenges societal expectations and promotes healing for everyone.  

How to Seek Help for Eating Disorders & Support Resources  

Seeking help for an eating disorder is a crucial step toward recovery, and there are many resources available to guide you through this journey. The first step is recognizing the need for support, which can be challenging but is essential for healing. At Monte Nido, we offer a full continuum of care, including virtual day programming, in-person day programming, and 24/7 residential and inpatient care across the country.  

Remember, recovery is possible, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s important to reach out to friends, family, or support networks who can provide encouragement during the recovery process. The key is to take that first step toward help, no matter how big or small. If you are struggling with your recovery journey, visit the link in our bio to learn about our eating disorder treatment programs.  You don't have to face an eating disorder alone.  

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FAQs About Eating Disorder Awareness Week  

What is Eating Disorder Awareness Week?  

Eating Disorder Awareness Week (EDAW) is an annual observance dedicated to increasing understanding of eating disorders, reducing stigma, and encouraging early intervention. The week creates space for education, advocacy, and community connection by highlighting the realities of eating disorders and the importance of accessible, evidence-based treatment. EDAW also honors the voices of those with lived experience and the clinicians and advocates working to improve care and outcomes.  

Why is eating disorder awareness important?  

Eating disorders are serious, complex mental health conditions that are often misunderstood or overlooked. Increased awareness helps challenge harmful myths, reduce shame, and promote earlier recognition of symptoms. When people understand that eating disorders are not choices and can affect anyone, they are more likely to seek help, offer support, and advocate for compassionate, effective care across communities.  

Who can be affected by eating disorders?  

Eating disorders can affect people of all ages, genders, races, body sizes, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic backgrounds. There is no single “look” or profile. While certain groups may experience higher risk due to social stressors or stigma, anyone can struggle. Recognizing this diversity is essential for ensuring that awareness efforts and treatment approaches are inclusive and equitable.  

How can I get help during Eating Disorder Awareness Week?  

EDAW can be a meaningful time to reach out for support. You might start by talking with a trusted person, connecting with a healthcare provider, or exploring reputable eating disorder resources. If you or someone you care about is struggling, professional treatment can help. Organizations like Monte Nido offer assessments, education, and evidence-based care to support recovery at every stage.  

How to Help Drive Change in Eating Disorder Awareness  

There are many ways to get involved this week and spread awareness. Whether in-person or online, conversations about eating disorders help break down the stigma and educate others.  

Supporting Someone Without Judgment  

Offering support starts with listening. Avoid making assumptions about someone’s body, behaviors, or recovery status, and resist the urge to “fix” or give advice. Instead, validate their experience, ask open-ended questions, and respect their boundaries. Using neutral language around food and bodies can help create a safer space where people feel seen and supported rather than scrutinized.  

Challenging Diet Culture and Weight Stigma  

Diet culture often frames thinness as health and morality, reinforcing shame and misinformation. You can help counter this by questioning weight-centric narratives, avoiding diet talk, and sharing messages that emphasize health, well-being, and diversity of body sizes. Calling out harmful assumptions—gently and thoughtfully—helps shift conversations toward compassion and inclusivity.  

Advocating for Inclusive, Evidence-Based Care  

Advocacy includes supporting access to eating disorder treatment that is evidence-based, weight-inclusive, and affirming of all identities. This can mean sharing accurate resources, encouraging professional help when needed, or amplifying organizations working to expand equitable care. Centering lived experience and clinical expertise helps ensure awareness leads to meaningful, lasting change.  

How to Fight and Commit to Change in Eating Disorder Recovery  

Please remember, it’s also okay if this week feels difficult or triggering for you. If you need to take a step back, unplug from social media, or lean on your support system, we encourage you to do so. Your well-being and recovery come first.  

If you are interested in joining an alumni support group or exploring treatment options, check out our alumni page here. If you are ready to take the first step in seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one, please reach out to us or give us a call at 888-228-1253.  

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