So I’m re-writing this post after some really helpful feedback from @circuitrider and @Publisher. Basically, I have been working to try and change some of the health curriculum within public schools to better accommodate people with mental illness (specifically eating disorders). Anyway one of my main responses was that it became too personal and was a major red flag (completely agree with that). Now looking at it, it really doesn’t make sense to talk about it even if the original idea seemed from people I knew other than myself and also the fact that I don’t really have anything concrete to show. Thanks so much for the advice.
1 Like
This falls under the category of personal health and other challenges and how much is too much when it comes to sharing information about yourself. Even the title of your thread begged the question. “Well, what kind of activism is she talking about?” The word itself has a lot of connotations, not all them positive, in certain places. The particulars of your situation sound wholesome and non-confrontational. Maybe, calling it advocacy work since that seems to be what you are doing?
3 Likes
Agree with @circuitrider.
Eating Disorders may be viewed as a red flag just as would writing about thoughts self-harm.
One might see an eating disorder as an indication that one does not handle stress in a healthy manner.
1 Like
That’s what I was worried about, it for sure wasn’t on my top list of stuff to write about but I was just curious.
1 Like
Lily - I can tell you with some certainty that there are many students at boarding schools struggling with eating disorders. There are counselors on campus that have expertise in that speciality. It sounds like your personal story is one of growth and empowerment. You are an advocate and a resource. You should be proud of your journey and if you feel comfortable, you should write about it or share what you have learned.
1 Like
Just one more perspective to share with you @Lily1 - I hope you find a school where you can feel safe to be yourself, safe to seek help when needed, and a place where you feel accepted for the “true you” 
A couple of girls at Kiddo’s school have spoken about their experiences with eating disorders at school meeting and senior meditation. You may want to check out Emma Willard’s “Wellie” program - they have a residential life program for girls interested in nutrition & wellness.
Huge difference between developing an eating disorder after enrolled in a boarding school versus having an eating disorder prior to entering boarding school and disclosing it on one’s applications.
This does not mean do not apply to boarding school if you have an eating disorder as your eating disorder may be due to a stressful home environment or non-acceptance at your current school.
@Publisher and @Golfgr8 Thanks so much for the advice, personally I have been recovered for almost a year now (it would be 2 by the time I was on campus) and I am not concerned about my eating disorder (I’ve developed good habits and have no interests in bringing back old ones). I’m really only bringing it up because it’s something I hope to help bring awareness and help others and want to be at a school that would help/support me to do that. Emma Willard does have a really good program for that and it is the number one school on my list. And I probably won’t talk about it on application, I really don’t want my past to be how they think of me.