By Sheldon Spackman

World Eating Disorder Action Day June 2

Jun 2, 2018 | 1:49 PM

‘Ending the Stigma’ is this year’s theme for World Eating Disorder Action Day on June 2.

According to officials, it’s a day aimed at drawing attention to the pressing need for more action on Eating disorders around the world. Its estimated eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness and affect between 1-5 per cent of the total population.

However, the Silver Linings Foundation and Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta (EDSNA) say eating disorders continue to be shrouded in shame, secrecy and misconceptions which can make it difficult for people to find the help they need.

As a result, the two organizations in collaboration with Alberta Health Services (AHS) have released an animated video to help families navigate the system and find help for their loved one.

“When you have a loved one with an eating disorder, it can feel completely overwhelming,” says Silver Lining’s Board Chair Cendrine Tremblay in a press release. “It can be hard to think straight, to know where to go, what to do, what not to do or even where to start, this video helps to show the way.”

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“We want the video to be shared widely to let families know they don’t have to face an eating disorder alone,” added EDSNA’S Executive Director Sue Huff. “We hope healthcare professionals will also use this valuable resource to assist their patients.”

The video was created by Edmonton’s Blue Sky Animation Inc and is available at www.EatingDisorders.Info, on Youtube, the websites of both EDSNA and Silver Linings and on social media platforms.

In addition, a 30 second promo clip about the new resources will appear on televisions in waiting rooms in AHS facilities across the province. The first time a message about eating disorders will be profiled on AHS screens.