Anorexia Nervosa
Awareness, Prevention and the Testimony of Melania Scisci
On 26th Nov, the Falcone & Borsellino Carelli Comprehensive Institute, Conversano, Italy, hosted a dedicated seminar to raise awareness about eating disorders, as part of the Contiamo alla Pari (Counting as Equals) educational project. The event focused on nutrition education and early prevention, with a compelling keynote testimony by Melania Scisci, a young survivor of anorexia nervosa.
According to the World Health Organization, more than 16 million people worldwide were affected by eating disorders in 2021—a rapidly growing phenomenon that often begins in adolescence. Anorexia nervosa, characterised by severe food restriction, intense fear of weight gain and a distorted body image, remains one of the most dangerous mental health conditions, with a high risk of premature death or suicide.
Melania Scisci: A Story of Survival and Rebirth
Guest speaker Melania Scisci shared her personal journey, recounting the period when anorexia brought her weight down to just 27 kg before hospitalisation marked a turning point.
“It was Room 309 that brought me back to life. My journey has been full of setbacks, but also new beginnings. With determination, it is possible to come out of the tunnel of eating disorders.” Melania Scisci
Her story is told in her autobiographical book Room 309, available on major online stores including Amazon.
A Call for Prevention and Open Dialogue
School principal Dr. Flora Marasciulo emphasised the vital role of prevention:
“We must not wait for distress to surface. It is essential to inform, raise awareness and build understanding: food is nourishment and health, not a tool of control or a source of anxiety.” Dr. Flora Marasciulo
The seminar, addressed to students and families, also featured contributions from:
Dr. Angela Mastrandrea, Psychotherapist
Dr. Emilia Matera, Child Neuropsychiatrist
Dr. Laura Diana, Nutritionist
Prof. Rosa Pepe, Anti-Bullying and Cyberbullying Coordinator
(Awaits statement from Rosa Pepe here.)
The Mayor of Conversano, Giuseppe Lovascio, encouraged students to embrace self-knowledge, self-acceptance and the development of their personal talents.
About the Project “Contiamo alla Pari”
The initiative promotes equality, emotional wellbeing and inclusive education through targeted school programmes and community-based activities.
