JOPLIN, Mo. – A free art show highlighted the talent and lived experiences of local individuals who have struggled with body image issues or eating disorders. Ozark Center Innovative Solutions presented Reflections of Hunger: Disordered Eating and Body Image Through Their Eyes on June 2 at the Joplin Public Library. 

“Art brings awareness, and that is sorely needed for those struggling with all forms of disordered eating and body image concerns,” said Dr. Jenny Copeland, licensed psychologist and director of Reconnect Eating Disorders Clinic at Ozark Center Hope Spring. “This art show is an invitation to step into their world without having to grasp the logic of it. This is an invitation to feel and understand, as I hope we all come to know that eating disorders are far more widespread than we often realize.” 

Eating disorders significantly increased in both number and severity during the pandemic. Suffering from an eating disorder is a lonely existence and one dominated by difficult thoughts, emotions and actions that come along with it. Innovative Solutions is a program designed to educate and involve the community in recognizing behavioral health issues and supporting those who have them. 

“Everyone knows someone with an eating disorder, and this art show will hopefully give our community a glimpse of what it is like,” said Dr. Copeland. “We hope to build upon the compassion that Joplin is known for and support these folks throughout our community. People can help by donating to local food banks, because oftentimes those with eating disorders don’t have enough food for recovery. They can also help by being a positive role model and celebrating bodies of all sizes and shapes.”