Being open about my anorexia

I am passionate about trying to eliminate the stigma that it associated with eating disorders as well as trying to make people realise what anorexia actually is. I feel as though if more people actually realised how serious eating disorders are, then less people would develop the illness in the first place and more people would know how to help those who suffer.

Some people find it really hard to open up and talk about their illnesses but I dont find it difficult at all. The types of things I talk about on my blog, I would also be comfortable to share with other people in person too. In fact I often talk to friends about the times I was sick and have offered to talk to a local girls youth group, if they ever want a speaker to talk to the girls about body image or eating disorders.

I don't know why I have always found it so easy just to talk about what is going on in my life but I think that this is a good thing. I have been told by many doctors and psychologists that they were shocked (but also thrilled) by how easily I open up and talk about how I feel. Apparently it is common for anorexics to close up and refuse to talk about whats going on butI am glad that this hasn't been the case for me.

Not only has being able to talk to people so easily helped me in my journey, but I believe that this is the best way to reduce the stigma of eating disorders. Many people complain about the stigma and wish that it could be different but what we need to remember is that it wont get better unless we let people in and educate them on eating disorders.

I know exactly what it is like to not understand what anorexia is actually about. It wasnt until I developed  the illness myself that I actually started to understand what anorexia was about and that I realised it wasnt a choice in anyway. I know it can be incredibly difficult for some people to open up but if you can, try to be open about your illness. Not only will you feel better for being able to get things off of your chest, but you will also be able to educate others about anorexia which will help them to understand.

I dont think it is healthy to keep things bottled up, so I strongly encourage you to talk to somebody you trust. This could be a family member, friend of a medical professional. If you feel as though you have anybody to talk to, remember that I am also here to listen with a very open and friendly ear. You can always reach me online at: karlygraham94@gmail.com