SJR 44

SJR44 190759-1 By Senator Allen RFD: First Read: 01-FEB-18 190759-1:n:01/30/2018:DSM/th LSA2018-589 RECOGNIZING FEBRUARY 26 THROUGH MARCH 4, 2018, AS NATIONAL EATING DISORDERS AWARENESS WEEK. WHEREAS, the 2018 Theme of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is "Let's Get Real" which will focus on expanding the conversation around eating disorders to include the diverse perspectives of millions of people affected; eating disorders are shrouded in stigma, secrecy, and stereotypes and the goal of the 2018 campaign is to shine a light on these deadly illnesses, dispel misinformation, and connect people with the support they need to recover; and WHEREAS, eating disorders are serious conditions that are potentially life-threatening and have a great impact on a person's physical and emotional health, signs and symptoms are often overlooked, and many are unaware of the devastating mental and physical consequences of eating disorders, as well as the pressures, attitudes, and behaviors which shape them; and WHEREAS, in the United States, 20 million women and illion men suffer from clinically significant eating disorders at some time in their lives; these disorders affect people across all backgrounds and include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorders; and WHEREAS, the National Eating Disorders Association strives to address the many misconceptions regarding eating disorders and to highlight the availability of resources for treatment and support; and WHEREAS, National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is a collaborative effort of volunteers, including eating disorder professionals, health care providers, students, educators, social workers, and individuals committed to raising awareness of the dangers surrounding eating disorders and the need for early intervention and treatment access; and WHEREAS, eating disorders usually appear in adolescence and are associated with substantial psychological problems, including depression, substance abuse, and suicide; eating disorders are serious illnesses, not lifestyle choices; anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness; and WHEREAS, many cases of eating disorders go undetected, and less than one-third of youth with eating disorders actually receive treatment; and WHEREAS, eating disorder experts have found that prompt intensive treatment significantly improves the chances of recovery; it is important for educators, medical providers, parents, and community members to be aware of the warning signs and the symptoms of eating disorders; and WHEREAS, National Eating Disorders Awareness Week will encourage people to share their stories and experiences with disordered eating and body image struggles; and highlight the importance of screenings for the early detection and intervention of eating disorders; it will bust myths and present eating disorders as a public health issue that affects people, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, size, or background; and WHEREAS, recognition of the vital work of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week in promoting public and media attention to the seriousness of eating disorders and working to improve education about their causes will help those who are struggling with these debilitating diseases; now therefore, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA, That February 26 through March 4, 2018, is recognized as National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be provided to the National Eating Disorders Association and the Alabama Department of Public Health.