The viral obsession with celebrities appearing drastically thin on social media is raising red flags among experts, who warn that the public discourse, often disguised as concern, can actually misinform people about eating disorders and potentially trigger those in recovery.
The conversation has intensified following Ariana Grande's new music video, where she's depicted auditioning for executives who suggest she "lose a few [pounds]" and "get some work done." The video sparked widespread concern for Grande's health due to her slender appearance, with many commenters, and figures like Jameela Jamil, labeling the video irresponsible for promoting a "deeply damaging image."
Grande's team announced she would be taking a break from public-facing work after her tour, citing "endless, ongoing public scrutiny." However, this announcement only fueled further debate, with some feeling they were being unfairly criticized for expressing concern about the pop star's well-being and influence.
Experts like family therapist Allison Logue point out that sharing "before and after" images, common in pro-anorexia communities, can be "unhelpful and harmful." This type of content can serve as inspiration for those struggling with eating disorders or reinforce the idea that their appearance is constantly under scrutiny, exacerbating their fears.
While Grande's appearance has been a topic of concern for years, Logue emphasizes that it's impossible to diagnose someone from afar. She also notes that the media's focus on low body weight obscures the reality that eating disorders affect people of all sizes. Instead of focusing on appearance, Logue suggests that meaningful change requires addressing the normalization of fatphobia and harmful body talk in everyday life.
The lack of shared resources for eating disorder support in these viral posts, coupled with prevalent snark and cruelty, highlights the problematic nature of the discourse. Actress Natália Franz, who has experienced an eating disorder, shared her concern that the focus shifts from "normalizing" struggles to potentially harmful speculation. She also stressed the importance of parental guidance regarding food and appearance around children.
Keesha Amezcua, chief clinical officer at Alsana Eating Disorder Treatment Center, warns that "talking about this in a heightened, gossipy, fearmongering kind of way is not necessarily going to inspire people to get help." Many on social media lack the education to understand the harmful nature of their participation in such discussions. Resources for help are available through the National Eating Disorder Association and the National Alliance for Eating Disorders.
