Exclusive: Kerry Washington Shares Her Story about Eating Disorders, Joins the Starting Lineup to Help Spread Awareness
Hollywood star Kerry Washington has always been known for her powerful on-screen presence and captivating portrayals of complex characters. However, behind the glamour and fame, she has been quietly battling a personal struggle that has affected her life for years – eating disorders. In an exclusive interview, the acclaimed actress has opened up about her experience with eating disorders, and is now joining forces with other advocates to raise awareness and support for those suffering from these debilitating conditions.
Washington, best known for her iconic role as Olivia Pope in the hit TV series "Scandal," has spoken candidly about the challenges she faced with disordered eating, which began in her early 20s. "I started developing an unhealthy relationship with food and exercise, and it was a very slippery slope," she reveals. "As an actress, I was already under pressure to maintain a certain body type, and I thought that if I could just control what I ate and how much I exercised, I could control my anxiety and anxiety-related eating disorders."
However, Washington’s struggles took a toll on her physical and mental health, leading to a cycle of guilt, shame, and negative self-talk. "It was a dark time in my life," she recalls. "I felt like I was losing myself, and I didn’t know how to stop the cycle."
But Washington has made a remarkable recovery, and is now determined to use her platform to help others who are facing similar struggles. "I want to let others know that they are not alone," she emphasizes. "Eating disorders are real, and they can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. I was lucky to have a supportive team around me, but I know that’s not always the case for everyone."
Washington is joined on this mission by a growing group of advocates, entertainers, and mental health professionals who are determined to shatter the stigma surrounding eating disorders. Together, they are launching a new initiative, "Starting the Conversation," aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and providing resources for individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
"We’re excited to have Kerry on board," says the initiative’s lead organizer, a mental health expert who has been working with Washington. "Her courage in sharing her story will inspire countless others to do the same, and we’re confident that her impact will be life-changing for many."
Washington’s involvement in "Starting the Conversation" comes as eating disorders continue to affect millions worldwide, with alarming rates of anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder among young people, in particular. The initiative will include a series of events, workshops, and online resources, all designed to educate, support, and empower individuals and families affected by these conditions.
Washington’s openness about her own struggles with eating disorders is a powerful reminder that mental health is just as crucial as physical health, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Her involvement in "Starting the Conversation" sends a vital message to those struggling: you are not alone, and there is hope for recovery and healing.
As the initiative takes off, Kerry Washington’s message is clear: "Let’s talk about eating disorders, let’s talk about mental health, and let’s help each other heal."
