WHEREAS The National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC) is Canada’s only national organization dedicated to helping those with eating disorder, food and weight preoccupation and related issues. NEDIC provides information, education, resources and referrals to individuals with eating disorders, their families, friends and health care professionals; and
WHEREAS Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate among all psychiatric illnesses and can develop in anyone, regardless of age, ethno-racial background, socioeconomic status, gender or ability; and
WHEREAS Stigma, secrecy and stereotypes still surround eating disorders, causing many people who are suffering to refrain from seeking help; and
WHEREAS Open supportive dialogue can help break the shame and silence that affect nearly 1 million Canadians living with diagnosable eating disorders and the millions of others who are struggling with food and weight preoccupation; and
WHEREAS Eating Disorder Awareness Week seeks to raise awareness of eating disorders, shed light on dangerous and pervasive myths, and promote prevention. It is also a time of year for Canadians to learn about available resources and appropriate services for themselves and/or loved ones; and
WHEREAS Eating Disorder Awareness Week aims to teach Canadians that eating disorders are not a choice, and that eating disorders are a serious and dangerous mental illness;
NOW THEREFORE I, Andrea Matrosovs, Mayor of the Town of The Blue Mountains, do hereby proclaim February 1-7, 2026, as National Eating Disorder Awareness Week in the Town of The Blue Mountains.