Every February, conversations about health often feel limited, centering on resolutions or the idea of “fixing” ourselves after the start of a new year. At NewCircle, we choose a different approach. From February 23 through March 1, 2026, we join the nation in recognizing National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW). This year’s theme, Every BODY Belongs, reminds us that all bodies are worthy of care, respect, and belonging.
This message is at the heart of what we do at our eating disorder treatment center in Birmingham. We believe that recovery is possible for everyone, regardless of their background or body type. Eating disorders thrive in isolation and shame. By coming together, we can dismantle the stigma that prevents people from seeking the life-saving care they deserve.
The Reality of Eating Disorders: By the Numbers
Misconceptions often paint a specific picture of who is affected by an eating disorder. However, the data tells a much more inclusive and urgent story. Approximately 30 million Americans will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
To understand why “Every BODY Belongs” is such a vital theme, we must look at how these conditions affect different communities:
- Racial and Ethnic Diversity: Research indicates that eating disorders occur at similar rates across all races. In fact, Black and Hispanic individuals are often more likely to exhibit certain behaviors like binge eating or purging compared to white individuals. Despite this, people of color are significantly less likely to be asked by a doctor about eating disorder symptoms or to receive a formal diagnosis.
- Gender: While often labeled as a “woman’s disease,” roughly 10 million of those 30 million Americans are men. Men are also less likely to seek treatment due to the intense social stigma surrounding male body image.
- Age and Size: Eating disorders do not discriminate by age or size. We see increased rates in both adolescents and mid-life adults. Furthermore, the vast majority of people with eating disorders are not “underweight” by clinical standards, which often leads to dangerous delays in treatment.
Fighting for Change, Committed to Change
NewCircle’s commitment to change is reflected in the very environment we provide. We intentionally chose a historic space to move away from the sterile, cold feeling of traditional hospitals. We believe healing happens best in a place where you feel safe, seen, and supported. Our mission is to walk with you every step of the way, providing a community grounded in compassion.
Our ED treatment approach is built on the understanding that an eating disorder is rarely just about food. It is often a complex response to trauma, anxiety, or a lack of control. By offering a “whole-person” treatment model, we address the medical, nutritional, and emotional layers of the illness simultaneously.
We are fighting for a world where:
- Barriers to Care are Removed: No one should be denied help because they do not fit a specific “look” or demographic.
- Stigma is Replaced by Compassion: We view eating disorders as legitimate medical and psychiatric conditions, not choices or “phases.”
- Intuitive Connection is Restored: We help our residents move away from rigid food rules and toward a peaceful relationship with nourishment.
How You Can Support NEDAW 2026
Awareness is the first step toward action. This week, we encourage our Birmingham community and beyond to take part in the “Every BODY Belongs” movement.
- Audit Your Feed: Unfollow accounts that promote “diet culture” or body shaming. Surround yourself with voices that celebrate body neutrality and recovery.
- Use Your Voice: Share resources from NewCircle or the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) using the hashtag #NEDAW. Your post might be the sign that someone needs to ask for help.
- Check on Your People: If you notice a friend withdrawing from social meals or speaking harshly about their body, reach out. A simple, “I’ve noticed you haven’t been yourself lately, and I’m here to listen,” can be life-changing.
You Belong Here
If you or a loved one is dealing with an eating disorder, please hear this: you don’t have to reach a certain weight or look a certain way to deserve care. You deserve support because things feel hard right now, and that’s reason enough.
Recovery rarely moves in a perfect straight line. It’s built from small, brave choices, one day at a time. If you’re seeking residential care or outpatient support, NewCircle is here to walk alongside you with calm, compassionate care.
This #NEDAW, let’s remind each other that recovery isn’t reserved for a select few. It’s for everyone. Because every BODY belongs.
Sources:
- National Eating Disorders Association. (n.d.). National Eating Disorders Awareness Week (NEDAW).https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/nedaw/
- National Eating Disorders Association. (n.d.). Eating disorder statistics.https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/statistics/
