In a heartfelt tribute marking National Eating Disorder Awareness Week, basketball stars Hanna and Haley Cavinder have opened up about their struggles with eating disorders. The duo, who gained widespread recognition as TikTok influencers and for their exceptional skills on the court, aim to inspire others by sharing their personal experiences. The Cavinder twins, aged 25, have previously made headlines for leading the University of Miami to its first-ever Elite Eight appearance in 2023. They were also among the first collegiate athletes to secure endorsement deals following transformative NCAA changes in 2021.
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The sisters are no strangers to addressing serious issues alongside their lighter content. Their history with eating disorders has surged into the spotlight, particularly through a YouTube video titled “Our Eating Disorder Story,” released in 2023. Since then, they have continued to advocate for mental health, especially during February’s National Eating Disorder Awareness Month, using their platform to raise awareness and provide support to others.
In their recent TikTok slideshow, the Cavinders detailed their tumultuous journey. It featured a series of poignant images accompanied by personal reflections. The twins shared, “Our eating disorder lasted for years throughout our college basketball career,” revealing how their competitive nature escalated unhealthy behaviours between them. They acknowledged the emotional toll, describing their mother’s desperation for them to seek help, which they initially resisted.
As they candidly shared their struggles, the twins emphasised the unrecognised battles they faced daily. “We were fighting demons no one could see, and growth isn’t always loud,” they reflected, commending themselves on their progress. They discussed the lengthy journey towards recovery, highlighting the transformative shift from focusing on their disorders to embracing health and fitness. “To anyone fighting this illness — you’re not alone,” they reassured those in similar situations.
In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine, the Cavinders elaborated on their decision to publicly disclose their experiences. It wasn’t until they received adequate help that they felt prepared to share their story with the world. While they acknowledged the complexities of sharing personal narratives, they highlighted the profound positive impact it has had, particularly on women and girls facing similar challenges.
The twins expressed their desire to demonstrate that healing from an eating disorder is possible, asserting that one can live without being defined by food or body image. Their experiences have fostered a passion for health, compelling them to convert their own struggles into valuable resources for others navigating similar paths.
Reflecting on their recovery, the sisters candidly admitted that their close relationship initially posed challenges. While they have since become each other’s staunchest supporters, the competitive aspect of being twins complicated their journeys. “We didn’t even realise it at the time because we were so stubborn and stuck in our ways,” they noted. They emphasized that their joint commitment to recovery was crucial in overcoming their struggles.
As National Eating Disorder Awareness Month approaches its conclusion, the Cavinders aim to convey an essential message: eating disorders can manifest in various forms, and the struggles are not always as visible as portrayed in media. They encourage those grappling with such issues to recognise the nuances of their experiences, stressing that admitting to having a problem is vital. “For so long, we approached everything with a ‘we can fix this ourselves’ athletic mindset,” they explained. Seeking help, they realised, was the key to breaking free from destructive patterns.
The twins showcased their resilience not just as athletes but also as advocates, offering insights into their experiences on platforms such as the Today show. “We’re excited to show the younger generation that if you prioritise your mental health and dreams in college, you can set yourself up for success beyond sports,” Hanna expressed in April 2023. This reflects their commitment to encourage aspiring female athletes, a demographic often overlooked in professional sports.
For those struggling with eating disorders, the Cavinders urge them to reach out for help and emphasize that support is available. The Alliance for Eating Disorders offers resources, including a fully staffed helpline, and free therapist-led support groups for individuals and families in need. As they continue to share their journey, the Cavinders hope to shine a light on the path to recovery and inspire others to choose the same.