I would like to commend both Tara Gilbride and The Observer for acknowledging the significant issue of eating disorders on the Notre Dame campus. As the article mentioned, eating disorders are not uncommon; however they often serve to isolate and consume the men and women struggling.
Eating disorders, like other mental illnesses, are real, organic disorders - and like any other serious disease, they are not a choice or an individual failing. As a survivor, not only can I attest to the devastation eating disorders cause, but I can also assure that treatment is effective and recovery is possible.
Thank you, Tara, for courageously sharing your story, and for giving a voice to those silenced by these serious disorders. I encourage the Notre Dame community to continue this important discourse by attending the Health and Body Image Conference, and by reaching out to those who are in need of help and support. And for those of you struggling, please know that you are not alone.
Allison Wishon
alumnus
Class of 2007
Mar. 12
