By NAMI Southwest Washington

As we step into Eating Disorder Awareness Week, from February 26 through March 3, it feels almost serendipitous to reflect on my own journey—a journey that spiraled from the shadows of anorexia into the light of recovery and awareness. This year’s theme, “Get in the Know,” resonates deeply with me, as my battle against an eating disorder began in a place of misunderstanding and silence, both from myself and those around me.

My story is not unique. It started in my teenage years, a period that should have been filled with awkward dances and the sweet taste of growing independence. Instead, my memories are tainted by the sharp edges of bullying. Comments about my appearance, which were intended to be fleeting moments of amusement for others, became the chains that dragged me into the depths of anorexia. I was convinced that if I could just become smaller, I could evade the pain and the spotlight that seemed to follow me, highlighting my every flaw.

The journey into an eating disorder is a silent one. You don’t realize you’ve embarked on it until you’re too far in, convinced that the distorted voice in your head is your greatest ally. It tells you that control over your body is the key to happiness, even as it locks you away from everything and everyone you love.

Eating Disorder Awareness Week is a beacon of hope in that darkness. It serves as a crucial reminder that eating disorders are not choices, but complex illnesses that require understanding, compassion, and specialized care. This week encourages us to “Get in the Know”—to educate ourselves and others about the realities of eating disorders, to recognize the signs in ourselves and those around us, and to understand that recovery, though challenging, is possible.

Getting involved in raising awareness can take many forms. Sharing information on social media, participating in events organized by local and national eating disorder associations, or simply starting a conversation can all contribute to breaking the stigma. It’s about creating a world where those affected feel seen and supported, rather than isolated by their struggles.

For me, recovery was a road paved with the support of a few understanding souls who chose to learn, to listen, and to stand by me. It involved professional help, a willingness to confront the pain I had been avoiding, and the slow realization that my worth was not tied to my weight or the shape of my body. It was about learning to nourish myself in every sense of the word.

As we move through Eating Disorder Awareness Week, let’s commit to “Get in the Know.” Let’s educate ourselves about the signs, symptoms, and effects of eating disorders. Let’s spread the word and foster environments where seeking help is encouraged, not stigmatized. If you know someone struggling, approach them with kindness and support. If you’re battling an eating disorder yourself, know that you are not alone, and recovery is within your reach.

This week, and every week, let’s shine a light on eating disorders, dispelling myths and offering hope. It’s time to talk, to learn, and to support each other in the journey toward healing. Because everyone deserves to live a life unchained from their eating disorder, a life where they can truly thrive.