As Citizen Lobbyists, we had the opportunity to present to Senator Jeff Flake, Senator John McCain, Congresswoman Martha McSally, Congressman David Schweikert, and Congressman Paul Gosar on the following life and death information:
- Eating Disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses – up to 20% of those who suffer, die.
- Anorexia is the third most common chronic illness among adolescents.
- Binge Eating Disorders are more prevalent than Anorexia.
- Only 1 in 10 people with Eating Disorders receive treatment.
Life in recovery from Eating Disorders is possible. The Anna Westin Act calls for professional training, clarity of parity, truth in advertising, and ensures all Eating Disorders receive quality treatment and coverage, equal to any other bodily illness. Currently in front of both the House and Senate, the Anna Westin Act is the first Eating Disorder specific Bill to be introduced at the Congressional level. Please join us in showing your support for this critically important Bill!