The theme of this year’s National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is “I had no idea.”  Did you know eating disorders are the most fatal of all mental illness? Did you know that people of all shapes and sizes can be diagnosed with one? Did you know that 10 percent of sufferers are men? Did you know that 80 percent of 10-year-old girls are afraid of being fat? Did you know excessive exercise or fear of certain foods might be a symptom of an eating disorder?

The cause of an eating disorder is different for each individual, but our fellow students’ willingness to respect their bodies, put a stop to “fat talk” and define health holistically rather than by size is critical for healing. We ask that this week, you step away from the mirror and treat yourself to a break from your workout routine and eat as much of your favorite food as your heart desires. If you’re dieting, ask yourself why. Stop and think about whether you’re eating salad or running — because you like it or because you feel you’re “supposed” to. Health is not dependent on size, and without a healthy mindset, what do you have?

Our bodies do so much for us. Rather than trying to change them, let’s be thankful for them. Let’s love them.

Active Minds and SHAPES (Students Helping Acquire, Promote, and Enhance Self-Esteem)