Body image among youth in BC is a growing problem. “A third of healthy weight males were trying to gain weight, while 52% of healthy weight females were trying to lose weight.” (McCreary Centre Society, 2013).
Every year, February 1-7th marks Eating Disorders Awareness Week, an annual event aimed not only at bringing this vital issue into the spotlight, but to start some meaningful and engaging discussions, as well as activities at schools, with families, and the workplace. The BC Provincial Eating Disorders Awareness (PEDAW) campaign, a nonprofit organization with the ongoing theme, ‘love our bodies, love ourselves!’, aims to do just that! It is a Province wide effort, brought to you by Jessie’s Legacy Eating Disorders Prevention & Awareness Program, to raise awareness around prevention and early intervention of eating disorders as well as media literacy, resiliency, building healthy body image and self-esteem.
- #Purple4PEDAW: The Public Wears Purple and BC Lights Up!
On Friday, February 3rd, we are asking the public to wear purple and our free “love our bodies, love ourselves!” wristbands to show their support and raise awareness for this pervasive issue (order free wristbands). Using #Purple4PEDAW, we are encouraging everyone to post photos of themselves and any purple-lit landmarks on Friday, February 3rd to their social media! See full list of BC landmarks. - Vancouver Canucks Participate in PEDAW
On Saturday, February 4th, PEDAW will be with the Vancouver Canucks! Rogers Arena and the ice rink will light up purple and you can find us at the Community Corner booth where we’ll be giving out fun swag, promote some of our resources, and play fun activities! Various Canucks players will be wearing our wristbands, while messaging about eating disorders and body image will be broadcast during the game! - The Hunt to Love our Bodies, Love Ourselves – Scavenger Hunt
For the entire month of February, you are invited to join in the online scavenger hunt using the free “GooseChase” app! Contestants will be asked to complete missions related to eating disorders awareness! Over $500.00 in prizes available! - Free Panel Event – How to Support Someone Who Might be Struggling with Eating & Weight
Saturday, February 11th is an opportunity for the public to listen and ask questions to our expert panelists on how to support someone who might be struggling with eating and weight issues! See event details
