Our Mission Statement
The Eating Disorders Information Network (EDIN) is a nonprofit organization committed to the prevention of all types of disordered eating, from binge eating to anorexia, and to promoting positive self-esteem through awareness, education, and outreach.
Our Vision Statement
EDIN is committed to addressing the problem of eating disorders on a societal level. We are devoted to preventing eating disorders, increasing public awareness of the personal, familial, and cultural/media pressures which contribute to eating disorders, and helping those already suffering to find the therapeutic services they need. The organization strives to serve as a comprehensive resource and educational guide for those wanting to learn more about eating disorders and for those seeking help by gathering and distributing information about available treatment options both in the Atlanta area and nationwide.
Our Values
- We are dedicated to providing the community with crucial and quality information regarding the causes of disordered eating and tools to prevent the occurrence of full-scale eating disorders
- We are committed to educating the community regarding the warning signs and devastating effects of eating disorders
- We put the development of a healthy body image and self-esteem at the center of all we do
- We believe that those seeking help should be given all the treatment resources available in a clear and unbiased manner
- We strive to bring awareness of EDIN’s cause in order to de-stigmatizing the issue within the community
- We respect individual differences and perspectives in all our personal and professional interactions
- We value the resources, both human and financial, that are available to us and always seek to utilize resources in a responsible manner
The History of Our Organization
In 1996, Dina Zeckhausen, PhD, a renowned Atlanta psychologist, attended a conference on Narrative Therapy in Vancouver, British Columbia. At the conference, she attended a workshop led by four members of the Vancouver Anti-Anorexia Anti-Bulimia League. This league was comprised of young women in recovery from eating disorders who, during the course of their treatment, realized that the messages they heard that were labeled “anorexic” were actually originating from the culture surrounding them. Empowered by their recovery, they realized that becoming activists and trying to change the culture was just as important as trying to change themselves. Out of that commitment, the organization developed, devoted to fighting weight-based prejudice, raising awareness, and creating a resounding voice of sanity driven by their unity and passion.
Dr. Zeckhausen was so moved by their struggles and the courage of these young women that she decided to bring that passion back to Atlanta. The Atlanta Anti-Eating Disorders League (AAEDL) held its first meeting in June 1996 consisting of thirteen individuals. Today the organization has hundreds of members around the country.
AAEDL was incorporated as a non-profit (501c3) in 1998. In February 2001, AAEDL officially changed its name to, EDIN, the Eating Disorders Information Network. EDIN is composed of individuals who are passionate about addressing the underlying issues that lead to eating disorders, those in recovery, loved ones of those affected, and helping professionals with expertise in the area. Together a solid commitment has been made to “prevent eating disorders through awareness, education, and outreach.”
