Eating. Disorder. The two words that mean many different things to many different people. The National Eating Disorder Association held its annual National Eating Disorder Awareness week from Monday, February 26th to Sunday, March 4th. This year's theme was "Let's Get Real" and the intended outcome was the spread of conversation and stories that are not often heard. Society today has a complicated relationship, to say the least, in regards to body image and food.

30 million americans face the challenge of a full eating disorder, and millions more will struggle with food and body image issues that greatly affect their lives. Stigma and stereotypes run rampant throughout our culture that only perpetuate the shame and secrecy associated with these illnesses.

I'm sure you were not even aware of this awareness week, unless you are someone who personally experienced an eating disorder and follows that type of news. It is imperative that we start spreading awareness and knowledge about the type of disorders that grip our society. A big focus today is on Mental Health problems due to all of the violence going on around us. What many people don't realize is that eating disorders are very real and very common. Many eating disorders also go hand-in-hand with other mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, OCD, and the like.

The symptoms of an eating disorder can be as blatant as pure refusal to eat, or they can be very discreet, such as dressing in layers frequently to hide weight loss. Are you concerned that you or someone you love may be exhibiting signs of an eating disorder? Check some symptoms below to find out:

1. Preoccupations with food or weight loss.

2. Strict dietary restrictions.

3. Food rituals.

4. Frequent dieting.

5. Withdrawal from usual friends and activities.

6. Extreme mood swings.

7. Dramatic weight loss.

8. Dresses in layers to hide weight loss or to stay warm.

9. Preoccupation with calories, fat grams, carbohydrates, other macros.

10. Drinks excessive amounts of water or non-caloric beverages.

11. Feelings of disgust or guilt after overeating.

12. Stealing or hoarding food in strange places.

13. Picky eating that progressively worsens.

14. Cutting out increasing numbers of foods groups.

15. Increase in concern about the health of ingredients.

16. Spending hours per day thinking about what food might be served at events.

17. Exercise that significantly interferes with important activities, occurring at inappropriate times or in inappropriate settings.

18. Intense anxiety or depression if unable to exercise.

19. Exercise taking place despite injury or fatigue.

Seeking help does not have to be a heavy experience. Bring a friend to your local counseling clinic, or visit websites to learn more about eating disorders and ways to help someone in need. Becoming more educated will not only help your immediate relationships, but will also expand community knowledge about a problem that is too often hidden.

Come out to the NEDA Walk on March 17, 2018 at Lake Eola hosted in partnership with the Eating Disorder Network of Central Florida to show your support!

If you are significantly concerned about a loved one, reach out to the NEDA Helpline Monday through Thursday from 9AM to 9PM, and Friday from 9AM to 5PM. You can reach the helpline at (800)-931-2237.

You can also visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org for more information.