Breaking up with ED [Eating Disorder]

By Raija Begall

Subjects: Eating disorders in adolescence, Anorexia nervosa

Description: "Breaking Up with ED is a book about Raija Begall's struggle with an eating disorder (ED) and how she came to terms with mental illness. The book is written as though Raija is in a bad relationship with a guy named 'ED.' St. Joseph's Care Group helped Raija produce the book as her message about mental health issues fit our 'with an OPEN mind' program so well. The book is about hope, recovery and moving beyond an eating disorder and symbolizes success in reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. As more people like Raija come forward and share their experiences, society will come closer to eliminating the fear and misunderstanding surrounding mental illness. Too often, mental illness is considered to be shameful and a personal weakness. It should be viewed like any other illness (i.e. cancer or diabetes) and people should not feel ashamed to seek treatment."--St. Joseph's Care Group "Moving Forward" July 2008.