Riverdale's Camila Mendes, who has on multiple occasions promoted body positivity and supported her BFF Lili Reinhart amid ridiculous pregnancy rumours, has opened up about struggling with an eating disorder.
"I only recently started dealing with my own eating disorder. So, as I was dealing with it, it felt like it was a good opportunity to talk about that, because I'm still in that vulnerable state too," she told Nylon magazine.
"It's not like, 'Oh, I am so past that phase of my life. I'm so perfect and happy now'. I'm still struggling and I'm still dealing with all of those things. I might always still struggle."
Camila then went on to explain how fans' responses have made a positive difference.
"I've been kinder to myself because of all positive feedback," she said. "I think all the encouragement from fans, and how much I see that they're going through the same thing, and how much I feel like I actually have an opportunity here to inspire people and prevent people from going down that path, has shown me I actually could make that difference in someone's life... So, the voices are starting to disappear. Well, they're just less prominent in my head."
Not too long ago, Camila also took the time to draw attention to the important issue of stigmatising eating disorders. In an announcement posted to her Instagram, she told fans that she's joining Project HEAL, a non-profit organisation that helps people dealing with eating disorders to afford treatment.
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"Could not be happier about my decision to get involved with Project HEAL," Camila wrote before revealing her personal struggle with an eating disorder.
"I can say from experience that eating disorders are serious mental illnesses. Growing up, I watched my big sister suffer from one for many years, and I've experienced periods of my life when I've suffered symptoms as well."
Camila said she wanted to break the stigma surrounding eating disorders and was offering something amazing to help do that.
"I'll be attending their SF Gala at Levi Stadium on Saturday, and auctioning off a day on the Riverdale set," she wrote. "Please, please, please join me in supporting this incredible organization."
Good for Camila for getting involved with such an amazing and personal cause.
Beat promotes awareness and understanding of eating disorders, also challenging inaccurate stereotypes and stigma. Find out more at Beat's website. Beat's helpline for those aged 18 and over is 0808 801 0677, and there's also a dedicated Youthline for those under 18 – 0808 801 0711.
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