This week on Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Kim Kardashian opened up about her own body insecurities when she stated, “You take pictures and people just body shame you. It’s like literally giving me body dysmorphia.” 

We got in touch with NEDA clinical advisor Ilene V. Fishman, LCSW, who explained what body dysmorphia is and how to get help.

Content note: includes the mention of physical descriptions and behaviors

I am enraged, disappointed, and sad. But mostly, I am tired. 

Content note: descriptions of sexual violence

I’m tired of the Harvey Weinsteins of the world building empires as sexual abuse allegations swirl around them as influential women like Donna Karan defend them.

Today marks World Mental Health Day, a time to spread awareness and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health. Here are eight celebrities who have bravely shared their struggles with eating disorders and other mental health issues. 

On the 20th anniversary of Princess Diana’s death on August 31st, 1997, her legacy is still prevalent in the mental health community. This influence has been dubbed the “Diana Effect,” and is a result of the courage she had to share her story. 

In many cases, trauma can be a trigger for an eating disorder. The Princess of Wales was involved in a complicated marriage with Prince Charles. This, combined with the intense pressure of the media, marked the beginning of the Princess’ struggle with bulimia. 

After MTV’s Video Music Awards on Sunday, a speech given by Pink has gone viral as an inspiration to young girls everywhere, as well as an example for parents. Amongst the political statements that were trending throughout the evening, Pink’s acceptance speech for the Video Vanguard Award was a refreshing reminder of the importance of positive body image. 

Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s recently-published New York Times piece, “Losing It In The Anti-Dieting Age,” investigates the changes within the diet industry as a result of the “anti-diet movement” and how it affects the millions of Americans trying

For 21 seasons, The Bachelor has invited viewers into the infamous mansion to follow the love story between two people. We as the audience sit at home, critique, judge, and become infatuated with the lives of these strangers, holding our breath as each rose is passed out until the bachelor has found the love of his life. 

I have always been entranced by gymnasts: they are agile and strong, graceful and confident, fluid and fierce. Come the summer Olympics, I am always eager to see the gymnasts tumble, flip, twirl, and seemingly defy gravity. As a dancer, I understand that more work goes into making a routine look effortless, and I also know that what we see in a performance isn’t the whole story. Gymnasts are athletes and artists, and their bodies are their instrument.

Every time a new piece of media hits the public regarding eating disorder representation, many of us are left to consider how the film and television industry can better portray the lives of those afflicted as well as convey the seriousness of these illnesses.

How often do advertisements and social media posts generate discussion not about the cause of the post or advertisement, but because of the way the message was delivered?