BANGOR – Northern Light Health is proud to recognize National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, an important observance that aims to raise awareness about the prevalence and devastating effects of eating disorders.
Eating disorders are a serious and often overlooked disorder, affecting nearly 30 million Americans at some point in their lives. In Maine, nine percent of Mainers, or 117,817 people, will have an eating disorder at some point in their lifetime.
Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, sex, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. However, certain groups, such as those who identify as female and LGBTQ+ individuals, are disproportionately affected.
Stigma around eating disorders can prevent individuals from seeking help and can contribute to feelings of shame and isolation. This is why it’s important to raise awareness and promote a message of hope and recovery.
“At Northern Light Acadia Hospital, we understand the challenges faced by those with eating disorders and their loved ones,” says Sara Porter, LCSW, clinical supervisor, Pediatric Outpatient, Northern Light Acadia Hospital and an eating disorders expert. “We’re committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to help individuals achieve long-term recovery.”
To facilitate this important conversation and provide helpful resources to our communities, Acadia Hospital will host a community forum, “Eating Disorders in Real Life: A Panel Discussion with Individuals in Recovery and the People Who Loved Them Through It.” This free and informative discussion will take place on Wednesday evening, Feb. 26 from 6-7:30 pm in the Penobscot Conference Room at Acadia Hospital, 268 Stillwater Avenue, Bangor – as well as virtually. There is no cost but those interested in attending are asked to register at northernlighthealth.org/EatingDisorders.
During National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Northern Light Health encourages everyone to learn more about eating disorders and to support those who are affected by them. Together, we can help break the stigma, start the conversation, and promote healing and recovery.
