Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center is “rejoicing in recovery” this week as it observes National Eating Disorders Awareness Week.
The Lemont rehabilitation facility is hosting a number of special programs and guest speakers this week in an effort to “educate the public on eating disorders and body image issues while reducing the stigma surrounding eating disorders and improving access to treatment.”
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week was developed by the National Eating Disorders Association (https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by eating disorders. This year’s theme is “It’s Time to Talk About It.”
“We focus on lifelong recovery and healthy living every day at Timberline Knolls,” said the center’s medical director. “But knowing that NEDA’s ‘It’s Time to Talk About It’ gives a national focus on education about eating disorders and the seriousness it entails, helps those affected see why the work we do at Timberline Knolls is an integral part to recovery.”
On Monday, Timberline Knolls kicked off the week with the signing of the Declaration of Independence from Eating Disorders, as well as a presentation by a former Timberline Knolls patient who shared her journey to recovery. On Tuesday, Chicago artist Katharine Keihn spoke to patients about the connection between body image and art.
The week’s remaining events are scheduled as follows:
Wednesday, Feb. 23
- Food scavenger hunt with Timberline Knolls dietitians
- An on-site open Overeaters Anonymous meeting
Thursday, Feb. 24
- Nia experience: A sensory-based spiritual and barefoot dance movement, designed to bring out a sense of health and wellness
Friday, Feb 25
- A song and dance program courtesy of Timberline Knolls therapists and eating disorder specialists
Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 26-27
- Film with a Purpose: Beauty Mark: Body Image and the Race for Perfection
Timberline Knolls is a 43-acre residential rehabilitation center specializing in the treatment of eating disorders, substance abuse and addiction, and mood disorders.
“Our residents — adult women and adolescent girls — come to us when they need immediate, life-saving and life-changing help,” according to the center’s website. “Our vision is to help residents achieve lifelong recovery by bringing together clinical treatment with spiritual and emotional growth.”