N.J. assemblywoman pushes to create an office to combat eating disorders

Katz, whose two daughters are 13 and 15, said, “Many people are in the shadows and are ashamed to talk about it. It’s a big issue that’s becoming worse, and we need to do something about it. I want them to have their self-confidence and know that their worth is not based on what they ate for dinner that night.”

Wentz pointed out that eating disorders affect different populations disproportionately.

“A 2019 study found that Hispanic and Latina and Latino, and Black, African American and Asian Americans, are more likely to engage in disordered eating behaviors than their white counterparts,” she said.

A separate study found people of color with eating disorders are half as likely to be diagnosed or to receive treatment.

Mendel said educating kids, as well as their parents, about eating disorders is necessary.

“You know, the conversation starts at home first. It’s really, really important to have open and honest conversations, because when a child feels they can have an open and honest conversation, that’s when the help really starts,” she said.

Wood said if someone suspects a friend or loved one has an eating disorder, they need to be able to listen to that person.

“Have that initial conversation with someone, but never approach it from a ‘You, you, you’ perspective. Express your concerns that you have, and then give them the opportunity to open up and to talk to you,” he said.

People who believe they suffer from an eating disorder should reach out to their primary care physician and a mental health professional, Wentz said.

A list of provider organizations is on the New Jersey Association of Mental Health and Addiction Agencies’ website.