Global eating disorder day a catalyst for hope and action
Global eating disorder day a catalyst for hope and action
I can see that, for many years, since I fell prey to anorexia nervosa, much of my creative energy has been wasted in a negative way, for I have turned it on myself; my own private obsession with food has robbed me of my true self…
Diary excerpt, age 38, in 1989
Only in 2006, after more than 40 years with an eating disorder negatively affecting every aspect of life, did I recover sufficient true self, to be free. At that point, as a way of giving purpose and meaning to my long ‘imprisonment’ with the eating disorder, I ‘came out’ and shared my story in A Girl Called Tim. Marvellous things began to happen. I began joining with others to raise awareness of this very serious, very misunderstood, illness. And now, as a grandma, I am overjoyed to be on the steering committee for World Eating Disorders Action Day on June 2. Yes, yes, yes! Join me in shining the light on ‘ED’.
Live Launch
In the lead up to June 2, a live launch for World Eating Disorders Action Day will take place on May 5, 2016, at the Academy for Eating Disorders International Conference on Eating Disorders in San Francisco, USA.
The field of eating disorders (ED) treatment has shifted treatment protocols based on new research findings over the past decade. Old “knowledge” is being replaced by evidence-based treatments that acknowledge genetic and biological causes alongside environmental influences.
The recent “Nine Truths About Eating Disorders” announcement led by major ED advocacy and research groups was an historic recognition of the changing landscape in ED advocacy, treatment and research.
Expected Outcome
World Eating Disorders Action Day will advance medical and societal understanding of eating disorders as treatable genetic, brain-based illnesses that affect a large cross-section of the world’s population.
If you have an eating disorder: Forgive yourself (there is nothing to forgive…but ED wants you to think so) and know that you are not weak. You have a serious illness. If you have yet to access a health service, or if you are still struggling, my wish is for you to let this first-ever global action day be the catalyst for you to reach out with renewed hope and seek the help you need. Today.
… I have had some hard lessons. I know I can live with myself only if I accept that my mistakes, my bad experiences, can be the catalyst, the seed, for new beginnings and fulfilment.
Diary excerpt, age 38, in 1989
As founder of Life Stories Diary my prime motivation is to connect with people who want to share their story. Why? Because your story is important. My goal with this blog is to provide a platform for you to share your story with others. Building on the accomplishments of The Diary Healer the Life Stories Diary blog will continue to be a voice for people who have experienced an eating disorder, trauma or other mental health challenge, and provide inspiration through the narrative, to live a full and meaningful life.
My nine books about eating disorders focus on learning through story-sharing. Prior to writing books, which include my memoir, I had a long career in print journalism. In 2017, I graduated as a Doctor of Philosophy (Creative Writing), researching the usefulness of journaling and writing when recovering from an eating disorder or other traumatic experience.
Today I combine my writing expertise with life experience to help others self-heal. Clients receive mentoring in narrative techniques and guidance in memoir-writing. I also share my editing expertise with people who are writing their story and wish to prepare it to publication standard. I encourage everyone to write their story. Your story counts!
Contact me: Email june@junealexander.com and on Facebook and LinkedIn.
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The diary, a book in which a daily record of events and personal experiences can be kept, offers a window into life in the past.
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