Weight, body image and food preoccupation is very common today; eating disorders are extreme expressions of this preoccupation.

These disorders, which can affect women and men of all ages, include: anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive eating. Eating disorders can have dangerous consequences and need to be taken seriously.

YWCA Moncton
Eating Disorder Resource Center Presents

UNDERSTANDING EATING DISORDERS
A PPRESENTATION FOR PARENTS AND SUFFERERS

Over the last 40 years, we have witnessed the emergence of a frightening monster. Anorexia and Bulimia were once disorders so rare that practically no one specialized in their treatment. Sufferers were oddities that were studied by doctors hoping to get a page or two in the medical books. But our 40 year long obsession with “thin” has left hundreds of thousands of women dead and millions sick with this disease.

February first through seventh is Eating Disorder Awareness Week across Canada. The YWCA Moncton along with the Eating Disorder Advisory Committee would like to invite you to attend a free presentation geared at understanding eating disorders. In this presentation, Dr. Emmrys, the chair of the Eating Disorder Advisory Committee will discuss the diseases of Anorexia and Bulimia, their origin and their treatment. The presentation will be tailored to parents and sufferers and there will be lots of opportunities for questions and answers.

About the presenter
Dr. Emmrys has been treating men and women who sufferer from eating disorders for 20 years. He has presented extensively on the topic and continues to advocate for better services for this population.

Where: The Moncton Hospital Room 6A
When: Tuesday February 2, 7:00 P.M.
Cost: FREE
If you have any questions please contact YWCA Moncton 855:4349

SOME SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS WHICH CAN INDICATE AN EATING DISORDER:

• Increase or decrease in weight or frequent weight fluctuation not related to a medical condition.
• Feeling "fat" regardless of low weight.
• Excessive concern about weight, food, and calories.
• Intense fear of gaining weight.
• Severe and frequent dieting or fasting and cessation or irregular menstruation.
• Self induced vomiting or abuse of laxatives, diuretics, or diet pills.
• Excessive or compulsive exercising.
• Eating large quantities of food rapidly or without being hungry.
• Social withdrawal, fear of situations where there will be food.
• Irritability, frequent mood swings, or depression.
• Hands and feet that are often cold.
• Dizziness and fainting spells.
• Dressing in layers to hide weight loss.
• Frequent use of the scale.

HOW TO HELP SOMEONE WITH AN EATING DISORDER:

• Let the person know that you are concerned and that you are there to help and listen. Be patient!
• Learn your own attitudes and values about weight and appearance.
• Find out what resources are offered in your community and seek help if the person's health is getting worse.
• Avoid power struggles about eating and weight (e.g. forcing the person to eat).
• Avoid judging or accusing the person.
• Talk about topics other than food, weight, and appearance.

OVERCOMING AN EATING DISORDER:

• There is hope, there is help! You don't have to be alone.
• Learn about the harmful effects of eating disorders and the risks associated with dieting.
• Find out all you can about the steps leading to recovery.
• Explore the resources available in your area; don't hesitate to reach out for help.
• Recognize the social pressures to be thin.
• Find out what it means to have balanced eating habits.
• Talk to people you can trust.

A PLACE TO BEGIN:

The YWCA's Eating Disorder Resource Center offers support and information to the community regarding eating disorders, healthy body image, and self-esteem.

AT THE YWCA YOU WILL FIND:

• Information, books, videos
• Documentation for professionals
• Support groups
• Referral to professional services in the area
• Prevention programs
• Guest speakers

The YWCA offers an EATING DISORDER SUPPORT GROUP for women 17 years and older recovering from Anorexia or/and Bulimia. Contact us for more information.