Thin-spiration
There is a lot of “thin-spiration” out there for young people.
The media commands an infantry of underweight women and overly toned men that are armed with messages that influence the way youth view their bodies.
When a young person begins to think negatively about their self-image, their nutrition habits may be ripped from the guidance of parents and doctors, and placed in the hands of celebrities and models. This is one way an eating disorder may develop.
Although it does not look as though this bombardment of “thin is in” will ever end, there are resources out there that work to prevent possible unhealthy choices before they begin.
Jessie’s Hope Society is a non-profit organization that provides prevention training to teachers, parents, community members and health professionals.
“This program focuses on young kids because prevention starts early,” says Heather Quick Rajala, Program Coordinator. “There is so much outside influence that bombard us with messages every day.”
The organization has developed a program called “Celebrating EveryBODY,” which focuses on building natural strengths, as opposed to fixing problems. The program is not gender biased.
“Knowing that healthy minds make healthy bodies is the foundation of the program,” says Rajala, a mother who has been with the organization for two years. “When they understand the basic principles behind the program, they understand themselves better.”
“Celebrating EverBODY” educates adults in the school system, parents, counselors and community members who are involved with children regularly, such as boys and girls club leaders.
“The health of the helper is a key component,” Rajala says. “It’s important that their state of mind is calm in order to access the child. The helper needs to clear their mind and focus on positive helping.”
Jessie’s Hope Society is working with the school district to integrate a similar program into the curriculum. Rajala says that the program can be relevant to other issues beside eating disorders, like addiction and alcoholism.
Professionals working directly with children ages 9-11 in the Maple Ridge area are encouraged to book a space for “Celebrating EveryBODY,” happening on May 26 and 27, or June 14, 19 and 21. A parenting workshop called “Connecting with Your Kids” is taking place June 19, and more workshops are planned for the fall. Rajala, Program Coordinator, can be reached at 604-466-4877 for questions or booking. The society’s website is www.jessieshope.org.
“The sun is always there, it just needs to come out,” says Rajala. “Once you tap into that sun, you have the ability to take control of your life.”
