athletica. Described as having an obsession with excessive exercise, this disorder is most commonly found in high- level athletes. Symptoms include over-exercising, self-worth determined by physical performance, and fixation with calories, fat and weight.

Recognizing an Eating Disorder

It’s not always easy to recognize an eating disorder. Some skaters may outwardly suffer, while others work hard to hide what they’re going through. And even though we tend to think that people who struggle with an eating disorder look a certain way, that’s not necessarily the case. Just as healthy bodies range in size, so do the bodies of individuals with eating disorders. Typically, you cannot tell someone struggles with an eating disorder by looking at them since many maintain an average body size. So, how do you recognize an eating disorder? Start by doing

what you’re doing right now: educate yourself. Learn about each eating disorder and its physical and mental symptoms. Once familiar, you’ll be better equipped to recognize the signs of disordered eating behavior in yourself and skaters around you.

Learn More

Tere are many places to learn more about eating disorders: • Te Emily Program (emilyprogram.com) • National Eating Disorders Association (nationaleatingdisorders.org)

Given the high prevalence of eating disorders in the skating community, skaters and coaches should be

educated about these diseases in order to recognize the symptoms in themselves and others.

• National Association of Anorexia and Associated Eating Disorders (anad.org)

• Academy for Eating Disorders (aedweb.org) *Name changed for privacy.

Article submitted by The Emily Program. Since 1993, The Emily Program’s experienced multidisciplinary staff has provided exceptional care and effective treatment for individuals struggling with eating disorders and related issues, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, compulsive overeating, binge eating disorder, compulsive exercise and related mental health concerns. Facilities are located in Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Washington. For information, visit emilyprogram.com.

ISI EDGE SUMMER 2016

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