WHEREAS,
eating disorders affect people of all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, body shapes and weights, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses; and
WHEREAS, in the United States, up to 30 million people suffer from an eating disorder during their lifetimes, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating; and
WHEREAS,
total economic costs associated with eating disorders were estimated to be $64.7 billion in the fiscal year 2018-2019; and
WHEREAS, a projected 26,000 females and 11,000 males in Delaware may suffer from an eating disorder during their lifetimes; and
WHEREAS, over one-half of teenage girls and nearly one-third of teenage boys use unhealthy weight control behaviors; and
WHEREAS, an increasing number of adults are being diagnosed with eating disorders; and
WHEREAS, an eating disorder diagnosis is a health crisis, causing a substantial reduction in well-being, that disrupts personal and family functioning; and
WHEREAS, eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness, including an increased risk for suicide; and
WHEREAS, education and awareness are critical to promoting early detection, effective treatment, and assistance to those seeking help; and
WHEREAS, with early detection and intervention, full recovery from an eating disorder is possible; and
WHEREAS, there are no eating disorder-specific organizations, facilities, programs, or residential treatment options in the State of Delaware to provide assistance.
NOW, THEREFORE:
BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the 152nd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the House of Representatives concurring therein, that the week of February 27 to March 5, 2023, is designated as “Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention Week” in Delaware.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Health and Social Services is encouraged to research methods to raise awareness of, prevent, and treat eating disorders.
