<p>Hello! I was wondering if writing about struggling with an eating disorder (anorexia) would be a bad idea for a personal statement. It is something that I struggled with since seventh grade, and in tenth grade I was hospitalized for four months (I am currently a rising senior). However, I have been "recovered" for a year now. I feel that it could be a potentially unique and compelling essay, & I am proud of my struggle and triumph over adversity. However, I am all too familiar with the stigma behind eating disorders and mental health in general, and I also recognize that some admissions officers might be reluctant to admit someone who might pose a liability to their university/college, although I am confident that I will not relapse. I suppose I should also add that I am male, which is part of what I feel makes my story different.<br>
Any thoughts?</p>
<p>It isn’t taboo. But many people don’t think it is an appropriate subject for the matter at hand, or perhaps the best subject, or just TMI. But it isn’t a unique idea. Every year people ask about this. If you use ‘search’ feature I’m sure you will turn up a bunch of questions similar to yours. Although I understand what a big accomplishment this is to you, I wonder if you can really say anything that is really unique, as everything in your post is just what everyone else says. I think it will be a challenge. Just the fact that you feel you have to write about it and that it is the most important thing could make one wonder if there is any perspective there. Just some thoughts for you, not to tell you either way. Do read the old posts and comments here. And this successful essay by a male:</p>
<p><a href=“Morning Edition - College Essays”>Morning Edition - College Essays;
<p>Thank you for commenting. I don’t think I will write about it after all. However, I am wondering what you mean by “Just the fact that you feel you have to write about it and that it is the most important thing could make one wonder if there is any perspective there.” I am VERY aware that my problems are nowhere near as bad as those of others if that is what you were wondering. </p>