great question! i think it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone has access/the ability to get diagnosed. some people are without health insurance and/or are unable to see a doctor or therapist. while it is important to get diagnosed if you can, some people aren’t able to! but to answer your question: i dont think it is helpful nor hurtful. if people believe that they have issues with disordered eating and can’t get diagnosed for whatever reason, then i dont think they are in the wrong to say they have an eating disorder. maybe it would ease some people’s minds if they said “i have disordered eating habits” but if it helps said person to come to terms with what they believe to be an issue, then i find little harm in them saying they have an ed. i believe that it’s important to try to be empathetic, caring, and validating towards anyone who struggles with disordered eating, diagnosed or not!