If you’re a college football fan, then you’ve seen clips of Penn State kicker, Joey Julius pummeling opposing team’s players. In light of the spotlight, Julius has opened about his struggles with his eating disorder and why he missed summer and spring workouts.
On his Facebook page, Julius discussed undergoing treatment for his binge-eating disorder, “Due to my increase in not only weight but also depression and anxiety, my team physicians started to notice not only a change in my overall happiness but also my performance as a normal human being. Throughout this whole process I learned a lot about myself. I learned that for the last 11 years of my life, I have suffered through a disorder known as binge eating disorder.” It’s a step in the right direction for Julius and his recovery to be addressing his eating disorder and talking openly about his struggles. Most athletes would be quick to deny such claims but I applaud Julius for being so open.
Julius also spoke to those who need help and offered help of his own, “If anyone – and I mean anyone, guy or girl – is struggling with the same or anything similar, please message me as I will be in immediate contact to help in any way I can to provide information or insight on my struggles…And I would love to help.” Since his statement was released, he has received positive feedback on his social media pages.
Binge-eating disorder is one of the most common eating disorders in the United States. On the National Eating Disorder website, it shares that 2% of men are affected by the disease. 3.5% of women are affected by the disease.
I admire Julius’ bravery in talking about his struggles with an eating disorder and using his platform to open others’ eyes. Maybe this will make opposing teams think twice about their comments and open up a discussion about eating disorders in sports. Best of luck to Joey Julius in his recovery!
