Myths surrounding eating disorders/disordered eating

The following are not true about eating disorders:

• a matter of choice

• the fault of athletes, parents or coaches (the athlete’s support systems may facilitate treatment and are key to the recovery process — though they may also act as barriers to treatment)

• a diet or “phase”

• solely about vanity

• something you grow out of

• exclusive to those living in an

emaciated body

• characterized only by weight

loss or food restriction

• affect only women and high-level athletes