Tara Gilbride is a sophomore at Notre Dame. She's also one of the millions of U.S. females who struggle with an eating disorder. Last month, Tara decided she needed to "go public" with her eating disorder, in hopes of encouraging others who may feel ashamed to ask for help.

"'I know a lot of people who are struggling with eating disorders and think this is something they have to hide,' Gilbride, who battles anorexia, said. 'I feel comfortable letting [people] on campus know who don't feel comfortable that [an eating disorder is] not a shameful thing to be struggling with.'"

Tara has heard from several Notre Dame students who either have an eating disorder or know someone who does. Tara hopes her letter will give her a platform from which to dispel some of the misconceptions about eating disorders. Read more at NDMCObserver.com.

Getting support for an eating disorder or other teen issues is important for recovery. NorthStar Center, a residential treatment center in Bend, OR, offers a sober living environment for older teens and young adults who are in recovery and need to finish school.

Labels: awareness, support, myths

Posted By: Aspen Education Group