Putting an End to Eating Disorders

At some point in their life, 20 million women and 10 million men in the United States suffer from a clinically significant eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder. In a national survey, 40 percent of respondents reported that they have known someone or personally suffered from an eating disorder. Often misunderstood as lifestyle choices, eating disorders receive inadequate funding for research and treatment; thus, many individuals and families affected by eating disorders are often left feeling helpless and hopeless.

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) is working to change that. The leading non-profit organization in America advocating on behalf of individuals with eating disorders and their families, NEDA was formed in 2001 when two of the largest and longest standing eating disorders organizations in the world joined forces – the American Anorexia Bulimia Association (AABA) and Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention (EDAP).


NEDA reaches millions of people each year, working with partners and volunteers to create programs and tools for anyone who needs help. The organization campaigns for prevention, better access to quality treatment, and more funding for research as well. NEDA envisions a world without eating disorders and aims to achieve this with increased awareness, early intervention, and improved access to treatment. Consequently, NEDA offers various programs and services for individuals with eating disorders and their families.

NEDA runs a confidential helpline that connects patients with treatment, support groups, and other resources. The organization also has programs designed to provide personal support on a wide range of issues, from insurance to loss to recovery maintenance, as well as a large library of educational materials for personal use or distribution in schools and communities. Additionally, NEDA manages Proud2BMe, an interactive online community for teens that promotes positive body image and healthy attitudes about food and weight.