When we dismiss an issue that is affecting the Black community as a “white problem,”we lose the opportunity to dissect and gain power over our problems. Many racial and ethnic minorities suffer from eating disorders and other mental illnesses because they aren't discussed (seriously) within the community. The lack of attention and conversation surrounding eating disorders is causing more harm than good by allowing those who suffer to suffer in silence and suffer alone. It also enables the person who is suffering to hide (or deny) their unhealthy relationship with food.
Ironically, Black women who are constantly underrepresented and picked apart in mainstream media and society (having their natural features praised when they are represented by non-black women, e.g., full lips), aren't expected to experience body dissatisfaction. According to NationalEatingDisorders.org, due to researchers historically biased presumption that eating disorders only affect white women, many studies lack participation from racial and ethnic minority groups.
While statistics show the number of Black people with eating disorders is on the rise, that could just mean more Black people are reporting that they suffer from binge-eating and other disorders. Having the support of a loved one can prevent these illnesses from turning fatal.
If you suspect someone you love is suffering from an eating disorder, here's how you can help:
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READ: Eating Disorders: Do You Know The Warning Signs?
Educate yourself.
In order to help someone, you have to be willing to educate yourself about what they are experiencing. Many people, who don't take eating disorders seriously, think the solution to battling an eating disorder is to eat. Taking the time to understand your loved one's experience will show them that you are genuine in your effort to aid them in recovery.
According to NEDA, it's best to approach a loved one who may be dealing with an eating disorder by meeting with them in a safe and private environment. Start the conversation by expressing genuine concern and sharing a specific memory of a time that you felt concerned about their eating or exercise behavior. Listen to them when they respond. They may be in denial or not ready to open up to you. If that's the case, reiterate your concern and let them know you will be there if they need someone to talk to and leave the conversation there.
READ: Is Your Love Of Food Actually A Binge Eating Disorder?
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If you are successful in getting them to open up to you, try to learn more about their personal experience as it may differ from information created based on previous (predominantly white) reports and experiences. Learn about trigger foods and symptoms so that you are able to recognize problems as they arise and intervene if necessary.
Educate those around you.
Family outings can be triggering as loved ones tend to be outspoken when they notice someone has lost or gained a significant amount of weight. While they may think it's harmless fun to pass judgment on a newlyweds “love weight” or a students “freshmen fifteen”, remarks regarding body image can be triggering. Try to engage in conversation with family members and educate them on the seriousness of unhealthy eating habits. Do not discuss the person who is suffering from the eating disorder, as it is extremely important to maintain their trust.
Find resources.
NEDA, National Eating Disorders Association, is a great place to start looking for resources. If your loved one is a student, find out if their school offers free counseling services or has a support group. If they aren't ready to share their experience, provide them with relevant and relatable reading material from Black authors who've recovered from eating disorders, like "Not All Black Girls Know How To Eat" by Stephanie Covington Armstrong.
Be Consistent.
The battle with eating disorders is an ongoing one. Even after your loved one has recovered, the triggers may still be there. Continue to show support and watch for the triggers and symptoms of eating disorders which may include isolation, rapid weight changes, discolored teeth and refusing to eat in front of others.
For more helpful resources, click here.
