Most people have heard of anorexia and bulimia. These eating disorders kill more people every year than any other mental illness, and there are multiple support groups for people who have been diagnosed with them. But there's another eating disorder that ends the lives of millions of people every year, and the saddest and most terrifying is that most people have never even heard of it.
EDNOS, or Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, is basically a generalized term for people who experience many of the symptoms for illnesses such as anorexia or bulimia, but don't meet the full criteria. The National Eating Disorders Collaboration states that between 40 to 60 percent of people who go to get treatment for an eating disorder have EDNOS, and it can affect people of any age or gender.
Despite its prevalence, many people might not even realize that they have EDNOS. Actor and singer Demi Lovato has bravely shared her struggles with mental illness before, including her battle with her own eating disorder, but I can't think of anyone who has mentioned having EDNOS. That's one reason why I'm so thankful that the young women in this video, Taylor and Ali, have spoken up about their illness and how it affects their lives.
Listen to Ali and Taylor's stories, become educated about this terrible illness, and spread the word so more people can get the treatment they need for it. And if you believe you have symptoms of EDNOS, such as distorted body image, poor eating habits, or a fear of gaining weight, please contact a doctor as soon as possible.
Don't forget to SHARE this important video with everyone you know. Together, we can work together to help put an end to EDNOS and all the suffering it causes.
