Clinical Director of Intensive Outpatient and Transitional Living Programming at Oliver-Pyatt Centers Jamie Morris, MS, LMHC shares her dedication and speaks to the passion all of us at OPC have for eating disorder treatment, recovery and the ever-present need for increased support of those struggling with eating disorders and their families on the path to recovery.
I must admit when I was asked to write this post, I found myself questioning, “how do I inspire others in a few paragraphs to care about the #MarchAgainstED?” As I reflected on what motivates me to engage in various advocacy efforts, I thought of the quote by Saint Ignatius of Loyola, “Go set the world aflame.” Within my role as a clinician, I have the opportunity and responsibility to promote social justice and advocate for individuals and families impacted by eating disorders. This sense of responsibility, desire to make a difference, and belief that unifying voices foster change are what have inspired and motivated me to participate in the #MarchAgainstED and advocacy efforts at the federal level.
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Both within and outside of the treatment center setting, individuals and families are facing the devastating news that insurance will not cover the clinically-recommended treatment they need. The impact of these determinations is vast. And for some, the result of these determinations has led to an outcome that we all hope we never have to experience — the death of a loved one or individual we have treated. Some sit complacently in response to learning about these stories of social injustice. Some become angry; some apathetic. And for some, it ignites interest and passion as well as a desire to change the present reality.
The #MarchAgainstED is one way that we, at the Oliver-Pyatt Centers eating disorder treatment program, believe we can honor our interest, passion, and desire to change the present reality. We recognize this march as an event that unifies voices, but also a call to advocate for social justice. #MarchAgainstED provides a platform for us to do extraordinary things in promoting the reduction of stigma, shame and discrimination associated with eating disorders.
At Oliver-Pyatt Centers, my colleagues and I recognize we have the honor and privilege of working with individuals and families who have been deeply impacted by these devastating illnesses. We consult on how we can do better and be better for the individuals we serve. We consider how we can support the community engaged in prevention and advocacy efforts, and support and encourage our team members’ participation in these various efforts. Participation in the #MarchAgainstED is one way we can do better and be better for those affected by eating disorders. We believe it is important to be at the table and have a voice when lawmakers are considering their role in improving access to treatment and prevention services.
We are excited about that the collaboration between Mothers Against Eating Disorders (MAED), The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness, the Eating Disorders Coalition (EDC) and treatment centers throughout the country and feel hopeful this collaboration will improve the climate in the eating disorder community. We believe full recovery from an eating disorder is possible when effective treatment is provided and strive to genuinely connect with each individual, to address the core issues driving the eating disorder, and to provide the tools needed to live a meaningful life.
For more information and to register for the upcoming #MarchAgainstED, visit here.