DESIGNATING THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2026, AS "EATING DISORDERS AWARENESS AND PREVENTION MONTH" IN DELAWARE.

Legislation Document

SPONSOR:

Sen. Poore & Rep. Osienski

Sens. Hansen, Huxtable, Sokola, Wilson; Reps. Heffernan, Minor-Brown, Morrison, Neal, Phillips, Ross Levin, Michael Smith, Snyder-Hall, Wilson-Anton, Yearick

DELAWARE STATE SENATE

153rd GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 136

DESIGNATING THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY 2026, AS "EATING DISORDERS AWARENESS AND PREVENTION MONTH" IN DELAWARE.

WHEREAS, eating disorders are serious mental and physical illnesses that affect people of all genders, ages, ethnicities, body shapes and weights, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses; and

WHEREAS, in the United States, up to 30 million people suffer from an eating disorder during their lifetimes, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating, and countless others will struggle with disordered eating behavior; and

WHEREAS, eating disorders have one of the highest mortality rates of any mental illness and are associated with severe medical complications, including cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, and increased risk of suicide; and

WHEREAS, total economic costs associated with eating disorders in the United States were estimated to be $64.7 billion in the fiscal year 2018-2019; and

WHEREAS, Delaware is not immune to this public health crisis, with a projected 26,000 females and 11,000 males in Delaware impacted by an eating disorder during their lifetimes; and

WHEREAS, over 1/2 of teenage girls and nearly 1/3 of teenage boys use unhealthy weight control behaviors; and

WHEREAS, an increasing number of adults are being diagnosed with eating disorders, demonstrating that this is a public health concern across the lifespan; and

WHEREAS, a lack of awareness and stigma surrounding eating disorders prevents many individuals from seeking and receiving appropriate treatment and support; and

WHEREAS, education about the signs, symptoms, and risk factors of eating disorders is vital for early detection, effective intervention, and successful recovery; and

WHEREAS, research shows that with timely treatment, individuals can recover fully, improving their quality of life and reducing long-term physical and mental health complications; and

WHEREAS, Delaware does not currently have any dedicated eating disorder treatment centers or specialized programs, emphasizing the need for increased resources and support for those affected; and

WHEREAS, national organizations, such as the National Eating Disorders Association, work to provide resources, support, and advocacy for individuals and families impacted by eating disorders; and

WHEREAS, designating February 2026 as "Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention Month" in Delaware aligns with National Eating Disorders Awareness Week and educates the public about the realities of eating disorders, and provides hope and visibility to individuals and loved ones impacted by eating disorders.

NOW, THEREFORE:

BE IT RESOLVED by the Senate of the 153rd General Assembly of the State of Delaware, the House of Representatives concurring therein, that the month of February 2026 is designated as “Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention Month” in Delaware to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote prevention and treatment of eating disorders.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Department of Health and Social Services is encouraged to research methods to increase public education, improve access to care, and support those affected by eating disorders.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that all Delaware residents are encouraged to support individuals and families affected by eating disorders and to promote awareness of this critical public health issue.

SYNOPSIS

This Senate Concurrent Resolution designates the month of February 2026, as "Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention Month" in Delaware to raise awareness, promote early detection, and encourage access to effective treatment for eating disorders.

Author: Senator Poore