This week marks GLSEN’s No Name-Calling Week, a week organized by educators and students to put a stop to name-calling and bullying in schools. Being teased or bullied about weight is emerging as a risk factor in many eating disorders. Additionally, LGBTQ+ individuals are at higher risk of eating disorders due to stigma, discrimination, and body image distress.
We asked the NEDA community to stand against bullying today by sharing their words of inspiration, encouragement, and support for those who have been shamed and stigmatized. Here’s what they had to say:
“It is no secret that students are bullied inside the school building and when they go home they are also cyber bullied. I was bullied back in elementary school. I was called various names back then. It was all because of the way I walked and talked. I tried to tell my ‘mother;’ of course, she was no help. She sided with them. I learned to keep it to myself. I luckily had some friends who stuck up for me! I would like to say that this doesn’t last forever, although to the bullied target, it can feel like forever. I would like to encourage you to find some confidants to tell what is going on, whether it is a teacher, guidance counselor, or trusted friend, so they can help you deal with the bullying. I also would like to also encourage you to help be an ally to someone who is being bullied, too, and create an alliance together to help curb the bullying!” –Katrin Alyss
“There’s absolutely NO excuse for bullying, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE! For those who are bullying, remember, we’re watching! For those being bullied, always remember that support is available.”
“Know your truth! Don’t let anyone take that from you!”
“Be true to yourself. Just because those around you do not see your worth, it does not devalue you. If you can find the beauty within yourself, there will come a time when you no longer care about what others think of you. Keep fighting and know that there will come a time when things get better, stay strong, and reach out to those who you can confide in. You are never alone: NEDA, those in recovery, and people all around you care more than you know.”
“No matter what other people may say, you are very special and perfect the way you are. Don‘t let other people bring you down.”
“You’re strong, you’re smart, you’re beautiful, you’re enough, and you’re not alone.”
For recovery resources and treatment options, please visit our resource center. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, call ANAD’s Helpline at: (888) 375-7767 or the National Alliance of Eating Disorders Helpline at: (866) 662-1235.
If you are thinking about suicide, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. In crisis situations, text “HOME” to 741741 to be connected with a trained volunteer from the Crisis Text Line.
There’s still time to register for No-Name Calling Week. Take the pledge here.
