Stacey Rosenfeld, a psychologist specializing in eating disorders and body image,
said in an email, “Overall, I think it's helpful for the public to understand that celebrities struggle, too, particularly when their looks are often portrayed as effortless.”
“I think the more celebrities come out about struggles [with eating disorders], the more of a public voice there is about these disorders, which can help [individuals] recognize symptoms in themselves, and possibly promote a culture of identification and treatment.”
Little research exists about celebrities and eating disorders. But Nancy Anderson Dolan, with a bachelor’s degree in psychology started the website www.wiseheartwellnessworldwide.com. She said in an email that sometimes education about eating disorders can backfire.
“It is not uncommon that when young women are exposed to information about eating disorders meant to educate and prevent, a number large enough to generate concern actually pick up the practices.”
https://www.empowher.com/mental-health/content/celebrities-speaking-out-about-eating-disorders-helpful-or-harmful?page=0,1