Teens exposed to harmful content in "Eating Disorder awareness week."

Research has already shown that social media algorithms are promoting triggering content about body image to teens as young as 13 but last week the hashtag "#EatingDisorderAwarenessWeek" has become flooded with triggering content and parents are worried

From 27th February to 5th March People and Charities over the world Celebrated Eating Disorder Awareness Week which this year was dedicated to tackling the stigmas around Eating Disorders within men. Charities like Beat ED spent the week highlighting Men's stories using the hashtag "#HelpMenGetHelp." and raising awareness for Men struggling with the disorders.

Eating Disorders by nature can be competitive with sufferers comparing themselves to others and feeling as if they have to Prove they are "sick enough" This results in thousands of posts every year with Harmful content such as images of Anorexia Sufferers at their lowest weights and the popular #WIEIAD or "What I Eat In A Day" showcasing diets with a very small number of calories which can lead to severe malnourishment and should not be copied.

An Instagram Poll said out of everyone who replied 66% had seen this type of content in their feed.

One twitter user said "friendly reminder that anyone posting triggering details is not bringing awareness to eds but is actually giving in to the competitive nature of them, so please keep it to yourselves this time because nobody else wants to know!"

another saying "the irony of edawarenessweek being so triggering for everyone is both hilarious and sad."

One anonymous instagram commenter said:

"With the focus meant to be on Men its disappointing to see people using this as an opportunity to post this stuff."

they also explained how they understand that:

"When you're in that mindset it's hard to see that what you're doing hurts other people, you are just trying to cry for help in the only way you know how"

Studies show that children are 242 times more likely to develop an eating disorder than they are to develop type 2 diabetes.

One Parent responded saying:

"I've spent so long trying to fix my own relationship with food so it doesn't affect my kids and now its all over their phones, It's worrying to say the least."

One social media platform announced in february 2022 that they were updating their community guidelines to help promote the “safety, security, and well-being” of their users. The changes include a ban on "content that promotes disordered eating."

Image showing the text that appears if you search "Eating Disorder" in tiktok:

"You are not alone, If you or someone you know is having a hard time, help is always available.

Beat - Weekday 9AM - 8PM, Weekend 4PM - 8PM

Call 0808 801 0677"

Another Parent said:

"They can try to ban it all they want but people are so ill that they always find a way around it like we saw with hashtags like "#anórexia" one simple accent fools the algorithm until they next update it."

If you or someone you know are struggling with this then there are are available 365 days a year from 9am – midnight during the week, and 4pm–midnight on weekends and bank holidays.

Call Beat on 0808 801 0677