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Information & Resources
National Eating Disorders Association
Information & Resources
Brand New Toolkits Available for Download!

Download the Parent and Educators Toolkits in book-form! Our toolkits have information on a variety of issues surrounding eating disorders that are invaluable for parents and educators.

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Educators Toolkit in book-form.

Parent Toolkit in book-form.


Home > Information & Resources > Educators & Coaches

Educators and coaches make a difference in the prevention and treatment of eating disorders.

As figures of influence, educators and coaches have a unique opportunity to recognize early warning signs and impart information regarding the serious issues of eating disorders.

If you have a student or athlete with negative body image or that is showing signs of a problem, you may be in a position to reach out to the individual, their friends and/or their family. Your support and guidance can play a significant role in leading someone into treatment.

Recovery can be difficult. But with your help, it is possible.
The information in this section is specific to educators and coaches. But you’ll find a host of terms and topics under general information. We recommend you start there and then augment your learnings with the subjects covered here.

Information for educators and coaches:

Anorexia, Bulimia, & Binge Eating Disorder: What is an Eating Disorder?
Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder include extreme emotions, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding weight and food issues.

Athletes and Eating Disorders
In a study of Division 1 NCAA athletes, over one-third of female athletes reported attitudes and symptoms placing them at risk for anorexia nervosa. Though most athletes with eating disorders are female, male athletes are also at risk — especially those competing in sports that tend to place an emphasis on the athlete’s diet, appearance, size, and weight requirements.

Incorporating Diversity in Your Prevention Efforts
Eating disorders affect people of every race, gender and age. When engaging in outreach efforts it is important to take into account the many different individuals and groups that you are trying to reach.

Tips for Coaches: Preventing Eating Disorders in Athletes
10 ways that coaches, trainers, and athletic directors can help keep their athletes healthy and prevent eating disorders.

Tips for Kids on Eating Well and Feeling Good about Yourself
It is no fun to worry all the time about how much you weigh, how much you eat, or whether you are thin. Here are some things you can do.

What Should I Say? Tips for Talking to a Friend Who May Be Struggling with an Eating Disorder
If you are worried about your friend’s eating behaviors or attitudes, it is important to express your concerns in a loving and supportive way. It is also necessary to discuss your worries early on, rather than waiting until your friend has endured many of the damaging physical and emotional effects of eating disorders.

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