Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week: Highlighting the Work of The Butterfly Foundation
In Australia, the week of the 6th to the 12th of September is known annually as Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week. In case you didn't catch on- this means we are currently celebrating this very important week.
“To celebrate all bodies we must be aware of the impact of diet culture on our body image and our lives.”
It is a common misconception that eating disorders and body image issues are reserved for young girls and women. In fact, eating disorders can affect anyone, at any stage of life. That is why we need this week- we need to advocate and raise awareness of eating disorders and body image issues.
“Over 1 million Australians are living with an eating disorder. Less than a quarter of those receive treatment or support.”
The Butterfly Foundation
In the spirit of this week, I want to highlight the incredible work that The Butterfly Foundation does.
The Butterfly Foundation is Australia's only national charity for eating disorders and body image issues. The charity provides support to everyone who is affected by eating disorders and body image issues- the people who suffer, as well as those who provide support- families, friends, and communities.
The mission of the foundation is "We work to prevent eating disorders and body image issues from occurring, to ensure that the best possible treatments are available, and that appropriate care and support are there for those affected."
What does The Butterfly Foundation do?
Through evidence-based support services, treatment, and resources The Butterfly Foundation works towards their vision of helping Australians “live free of eating disorders and negative body image.” The foundation also delivers prevention and early intervention programs, as well as advocating for the needs of the Australian community.
The Butterfly Foundation also operates a National Hotline with phone, email, and online options available for people struggling with eating disorders and body image issues. The hotline reaches over 20,000 people per year and is fully staffed by trained councellors.
In their 2021-2024 strategic plan, The Butterfly Foundation outline their main three goals as:
Reducing the stigma and increasing help-seeking.
Working to prevent eating disorders from developing.
Improving treatment and support.
How is the Foundation funded?
The Butterfly Foundation is an independent, not-for-profit organisation- this means they rely wholly on the support of donations. Donations come from State and Federal governments, people who have been supported by the foundation, the families and friends of those supported, philanthropic trusts and foundations, as well as individual and community donors and corporate partners.
How can we help?
According to the website, there are many ways that you can get involved and help this incredibly worthy cause.
Make a donation.
You are able to donate any amount of money you wish (don’t forget donations over $2 are tax-deductible) and have the option to donate one time or to create a regular gift-giving schedule.Fundraise for the foundation.
In-person events and fundraisers might be a little far-fetched at the moment but online fundraising is always an option. You can fundraise as an individual, community group, school or corporate group.Volunteer.
At the moment the foundation are reviewing their volunteer programs so you can’t register currently, but registrations will be reopening again soon so keep an eye out. (We’ll post about this as well!)Share Your Story
Do you have a story of body image issues or eating disorders that you are keen to share with people? The Butterfly Foundation is keen to share it! Submit your story of 200-500 words on the link above.
In the resources section of The Butterfly Foundation store, you can find multiple books and workbooks available for purchase. In the gift section, you can find merchandise such as pens, notebooks, drink bottles, and keep cups.
If you need the support of The Butterfly Foundation you can call the national hotline on 1800 33 4673, email the hotline or use the chat function. All the information can be found here.
