“I know how hard it is to eat. It feels like the world is going to end if you consume anything. I also know the guilt you feel after, but I want to let you know that I believe in you. It is not easy, but I know you’re strong enough to get there. You got this.”
-@riannakish
In addition to the worldwide Covid-19 pandemic, there’s another pandemic that many of us have remained quiet about, eating disorders. That is, many of us besides a 17-year-old girl, Rianna from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
Anorexia Nervosa and Body Dysmorphic Disorder are only two of the many eating disorders that impact 70 million people worldwide every year. While many remain silent about their food struggles, Rianna has chosen to use the online platform, Tik Tok to speak up.
Rianna’s videos consist of overcoming mental health challenges while recovering from Anorexia and Bulimia. Not only does she discuss her triumphs, but also her shortfalls. She is transparent about the ups and downs of recovery.
From conquering her biggest fear food – a Starbucks Frappuccino – to dancing with her stomach out, Rianna uses her platform to show the good, bad, and ugly side of eating disorder recovery. No stone is left unturned, and no viewer is left unsatisfied.
Fuel that body, girl!
For me personally, I have struggled with food guilt, personal body shaming, and restriction. Have I ever been diagnosed with a serious eating disorder? No. But I have practiced many unhealthy behaviors to remain trim.
Recently I realized these behaviors were causing detriment to both my physical and mental health. However, once I started my Tik Tok addiction (seriously we are all going to need to go to rehab if they shut it down) I found others struggling as well. I felt less alone.
I now watch Rianna’s videos religiously. Her “what I eat in a day in eating disorder recovery” videos push me to eat fear foods and stop skipping meals.
Like many mental health disorders, eating disorders are often pushed under the rug or glamorized as a “healthy lifestyle.” However, health is not the number on the scale, rock hard abs, or toned legs. Health is loving your body and fueling it with the correct nutrients to keep it strong and thriving.
Speaking up!
Recently Disney Star, Jennette McCurdy opened up about her 13-year-long eating disorder struggles on The Minimalists podcast.
Eating disorders are finally coming out of the closet and forcing people to realize the severity of these illnesses. If you feel that you or somebody you love is struggling with an eating disorder- reach out for help.
So, love your body. Love your body so much that you give it all it needs and never let it go without. And if you ever need a little pep talk, Rianna’s Tik Tok’s are only a click away.
Read also:
Is Your Food More Palatable Now That It’s Been White-Washed?
Being Fetishized As An Asian Woman
College Culture: Unchecked Disordered Eating
