When eating disorders hit close to home: How Arizonans can help and heal

Shawn Kebker, MSW, LCSW

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Do you know someone who might be struggling with an eating disorder? The odds are, you do — though you may not realize it. About 28.8 million Americans, or 9% of the population, will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime. These are real, complex illnesses that affect people from all walks of life, and they aren’t as rare — or as simple — as many people think.

Eating disorders aren’t about vanity, willpower or personal failure. They’re serious health conditions that deserve the same attention and compassion as any other illness. Yet, misconceptions and stigma still surround these disorders, making it harder for people to get the help they need.

Breaking down the myths

One of the biggest misconceptions about eating disorders is that they only affect young women. While it’s true that women are more commonly diagnosed, the reality is that eating disorders don’t discriminate. They affect men, women, children and older adults alike. In fact, research shows that 3.6% of men on college campuses have an eating disorder, and cases are being reported in kids as young as 10 and adults over 50.

Another myth is that eating disorders are a choice or a lifestyle. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions influenced by a combination of genetic, biological and environmental factors. They require professional treatment — not judgment or oversimplified advice.

Why awareness matters

The impact of eating disorders is profound. These illnesses don’t just affect the individual — they ripple out to families, friends and communities. And the stakes are high: eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental health condition. An estimated 10,200 deaths each year in the U.S. are directly linked to these disorders.

The good news is that recovery is possible. With the right support, people can and do heal, going on to lead full, meaningful lives. But recovery isn’t something anyone can do alone — it takes a team.

The power of integrated care

When it comes to eating disorder recovery, having an integrated care team is essential. Think about it this way: eating disorders affect both the body and the mind, so it only makes sense that treatment should address both. A primary care provider, psychiatrist and therapist working together with an eating recovery team can provide the holistic support that’s needed for sustainable recovery.

At Denova Collaborative Health, we specialize in this kind of integrated care. By combining primary care and behavioral health services, we ensure that every aspect of a person’s health is treated together.

How to help

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, know that you’re not alone. Reaching out can feel scary, but it’s a crucial first step. Start by talking to a trusted health care provider or reaching out to an organization like Denova. Whether it’s scheduling a therapy session, consulting a psychiatrist or getting a check-up with a primary care doctor, each step helps build a stronger path to recovery.

You also can educate yourself about eating disorders. Learn the warning signs, listen without judgment and offer your support. Sometimes, just being there for someone can make all the difference.

A future without stigma

Eating disorders aren’t moral failings — they’re illnesses that deserve treatment and compassion. By breaking down myths, fostering understanding and promoting integrated care, we can create a world where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can make recovery possible for everyone who needs it.

Editor’s note: Shawn Kebker is a licensed clinical social worker at greater Phoenix-based Denova Collaborative Health. He works with individuals struggling with eating disorders, the LGBTQ+ community and also provides career counseling.