A guide to eating disorders to raise awareness, early detection and support for the social environment of those affected.

Guide to Creative Writing: Anorexia Nervosa

Normal weight and eating disorders are rarely linked because our society assumes that people with eating disorders are severely underweight. However, this is actually true for only about 6% of cases. The majority of those affected are of normal weight. Nevertheless, stereotypes and strict weight criteria in medicine significantly influence the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders. This can have considerable consequences for the course of the illness, as those who do not fit this stereotype often receive no help or only belated assistance.

This book clarifies that eating disorders are mental illnesses and not a matter of weight. "Normal Weight" combines scientific information with personal experiences and interactive elements to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic. These insights include statements from the author, other affected individuals, and therapists, gathered through personal contact or social media platforms. It also offers support for the social environment of those affected in dealing with the illness. The book is suitable both for supporting existing cases and for the early detection of eating disorders. The earlier an eating disorder is recognized, the greater the chance of a full recovery.

Normal Weight is not just another publication that exclusively conveys expert knowledge. Rather, it presents the perspective of those affected, thus enabling deeper insights into the illness and how to cope with it. This issue focuses on the eating disorder anorexia nervosa, also commonly known as anorexia.

A book by Johanna Elsen

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Recognize, understand, help – 3 aspects combined in one book.

  • Raising awareness

    Drawings, diary entries, as well as audio and video elements expand the book to a multimedia level and provide a comprehensive insight into the emotional and mental world of those affected.

  • Early detection

    Scientifically sound information and a list of typical signs of eating disorders create a basic understanding and lay the foundation for recognizing the disease early.

  • Assistance

    Concrete assistance in dealing with those affected provides guidance to the social environment and helps to act empathetically and supportively when help is needed.

ART BOOK Normal weight

Normalgewicht (Normal Weight) originally originated as an artistic book project within the framework of a bachelor's thesis in media design studies. It is not just a work to read, but to experience.

Learn more

Watch it now on YouTube! A documentary about the background, design concept, and development process of Normalgewicht (Normal Weight).

About the author

Johanna Elsen successfully completed her dual studies in Media Design (BA) at DHBW Ravensburg in 2024. During this time, she gained three years of practical experience in a full-service communications agency and now works as a freelance graphic designer (print & digital), author, speaker, and social media content creator.

Alongside her work as a photographer and videographer, she has contributed to festivals such as the CTM Festival and manifest:io. She also performs as a pianist. Her musical and artistic background, as well as her interest in organization, inform her work as a festival curator.

In 2024, she wrote her first book, Normalgewicht (Normal Weight ), which marked the beginning of her career as an author. In connection with this, she also offers lectures and readings on the content of her book and the underlying themes.

Click here to view the design portfolio.