MEDIA RELEASE, 19 April 2012
Darebin City Council in partnership with the Eating Disorders Foundation of Victoria is hosting a free community awareness evening aimed at encouraging positive body image and intuitive eating amongst Darebin’s youth.
The event, entitled “Life is not One Size Fits All: Health at Every Size”, is targeted at young people, their families and friends and is a response to concerns about body image.
“At the Darebin Youth Summit in 2010, young people reported that body image anxiety was one of their greatest concerns,” said Darebin Mayor, Cr Steven Tsitas.
“By hosting this community awareness evening, we are hoping to provide young people and their families with valuable information about eating disorders, how to recognise the signs and risks, and where they can access the support they need,” the Mayor said.
The evening covers many issues, including accepting the diversity of body shapes and sizes; recognising that healthy behaviours, not weight, are protective of physical and mental health; and promoting intuitive eating.
“There are a lot of myths about eating disorders that are important for communities to be aware of,” said Natalie Wild, Recover Support Officer from the Eating Disorders Foundation of Victoria.
“Eating disorders are not a fad or a diet gone wrong, and they are not a form of attention seeking behaviour. They are complex mental illnesses affecting large numbers of young people and families. It is estimated that the true incidence of eating disorders is as high as one in five in many student populations.”
“Pressures around body image can be damaging to young people, including adolescent boys, with one in ten cases of anorexia being males.” Natalie Wild said
Event Details
What: Life is not One Size Fits All: Health at Every Size- Community Awareness Evening
When: Thursday 10 May from 7pm – 8.30pm
Where: Function Room, Darebin Council, 350 High St, Preston
Cost: Free
Bookings are essential. For more information or to register go to www.eatingdisorders.org.au/events or call 9885 6563.
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