Authored by Mandy Kryzsiak, MSS Candidate and The Understory Group Intern
As we observe Eating Disorder Awareness Week, it’s crucial to acknowledge that eating disorders do not discriminate based on size, shape, or appearance. While much of the conversation around eating disorders tends to focus on those who are thin or underweight, it’s essential to recognize that people in larger bodies are also deeply affected by these disorders. In fact, larger-bodied individuals often face unique challenges and experiences that are often overlooked or minimized in mainstream discussions of eating disorders.
Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of their body size. This truth is often obscured by societal biases and the stigma that larger-bodied people face. Many people in bigger bodies are dismissed when they seek help for eating disorders, as their struggles are not always recognized or validated by medical professionals, loved ones, or even the individuals themselves. This is why Eating Disorder Awareness Week should not just be about raising awareness but also about advocating for a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of who can suffer from these complex mental health conditions.
The Misconception of Eating Disorders and Thin Bodies
A common stereotype is that eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder, primarily affect people who are thin or underweight. This misconception is rooted in a deeply ingrained societal bias that equates thinness with health and beauty. As a result, individuals who do not fit this image are often
overlooked or wrongly assumed to be immune to the pressures and psychological challenges associated with eating disorders.
The reality is that eating disorders are about much more than appearance. They are mental health conditions that stem from a complex mix of psychological, environmental, genetic, and sociocultural factors. People in larger bodies may struggle with body image, disordered eating habits, and unhealthy relationships with food just like those in smaller bodies. However, the stigma and assumptions they face can prevent them from seeking help or even acknowledging their struggles.
The Unique Struggles of Larger-Bodied Folks with Eating Disorders
1. Stigma and Misunderstanding
Larger-bodied individuals often face the harsh judgment of society, including unsolicited comments about their weight and appearance. These remarks can deeply impact their self-esteem and contribute to feelings of shame, isolation, and guilt. The idea that someone in a larger body cannot possibly have an eating disorder is not only harmful but also deeply invalidating. The pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty and health can fuel a disordered relationship with food, exercise, and body image. For those who already deal with weight-based discrimination, the added stress of managing an eating disorder can feel overwhelming.
2. Barriers to Treatment
Access to appropriate treatment can be a significant barrier for individuals in larger bodies. Many eating disorder treatment centers are often geared toward individuals who are underweight or those who fit the more “traditional” image of an eating disorder sufferer. This can leave larger-bodied individuals feeling invisible or discouraged from seeking help. Additionally, medical professionals may downplay or dismiss concerns about disordered eating or body image, erroneously attributing symptoms to the individual's body size. This lack of understanding can prevent people from receiving the support they need.
3. Internalized Stigma and Self-Doubt
Larger-bodied people with eating disorders may feel like they are "not allowed" to struggle with food, because society often tells them that they are already too big. This can lead to feelings of confusion, shame, or self-doubt. They may question if their experience is “real” or if it matters, believing that their struggles are somehow invalid compared to those of individuals in smaller bodies. Unfortunately, this internalized stigma often delays treatment and can perpetuate the cycle of self-destructive behaviors.
Shifting the Narrative: What Needs to Change
1. Rewriting the Image of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders do not have a single look. We must break free from the narrow and harmful narratives around eating disorders and recognize that people of all sizes can struggle with food, body image, and mental health. It's vital for the media, health professionals, and the general public to move beyond stereotypes and start seeing eating disorders as mental health conditions, not just physical ones.
2. Inclusive Treatment Options
Eating disorder treatment centers and therapists should offer inclusive care that acknowledges and addresses the unique needs of larger-bodied individuals. Treatment should not focus solely on weight loss but instead prioritize healing the relationship with food and improving mental health. Support groups and online communities can also provide a space for larger-bodied individuals to share their experiences and find solidarity with others who understand their struggles.
3. Education and Advocacy
Raising awareness about the prevalence of eating disorders in larger bodies is crucial. Education campaigns should focus on dispelling myths about who can suffer from an eating disorder, and healthcare providers must be trained to recognize eating disorders in patients of all sizes. By increasing awareness and knowledge, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive environment for everyone affected by these illnesses.
Moving Forward: Support, Empathy, and Healing
Eating Disorder Awareness Week is not just a time to reflect on the prevalence of these conditions but also an opportunity to challenge the stigma and stereotypes that limit our understanding. We must remember that everyone’s experience is valid and worthy of attention, no matter their body size. By fostering empathy, inclusivity, and open dialogue, we can create a supportive environment where all individuals, regardless of their size, feel empowered to seek help and heal.
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