“Recovery is an acceptance that your life is in shambles and you have to change it.” – Jamie Lee Curtis
“You are not alone. You are seen, understood, and valued.” – Jenni Schaefer
Recovering from an eating disorder is an intricate, challenging journey, but there are numerous resources and support groups available that provide assistance, education, and empathy. Here, we introduce 15 essential resources and support groups that can offer the necessary guidance and encouragement to both individuals and families walking the path of recovery.
1. The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness
Since its inception in 2000, The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness has been a strong advocate for individuals and families affected by eating disorders. Their vision is to provide programs that result in a greater public understanding of eating disorders as serious, treatable illnesses. They host free, clinician-led support groups weekly, fostering a safe, nurturing environment where individuals can share their experiences and receive professional guidance. Educational workshops offered by The Alliance inform about the risks, warning signs, and the ways to help someone suffering from an eating disorder. Moreover, their comprehensive directory of eating disorder professionals ensures that those seeking help can access experienced care.
2. Eating Disorder Hope
Eating Disorder Hope is an online community that serves as a beacon of hope for those battling eating disorders. Offering an array of resources, including self-help tools and recovery advice, they aim to inspire and uplift individuals during their recovery journey. Self-help tools equip users with practical strategies to handle difficult situations, and recovery advice guides them towards a healthy relationship with food and their bodies. Inspirational stories from individuals who have successfully overcome their eating disorders remind visitors that recovery is not only possible but achievable. Additionally, Eating Disorder Hope hosts webinars and online conferences focusing on various aspects of recovery strategies, providing professional insights and practical tools.
3. National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
As a leading non-profit organization, NEDA provides a lifeline for individuals and families impacted by eating disorders. Their primary mission is threefold: to prevent eating disorders, to improve access to treatment, and to provide unwavering support for those affected. The spectrum of resources offered by NEDA is broad and comprehensive. Their educational programs aim to enlighten both those affected and the general public about the seriousness and complexity of eating disorders. Toolkits for parents and educators equip them with the necessary knowledge to identify early signs and provide supportive care. Additionally, their annual ‘NEDA Walk’ event creates an environment of unity, strength, and understanding while also raising awareness and funds for the cause.
4. ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders)
ANAD recognizes the power of community in healing and recovery, offering a variety of resources and services that revolve around communal support. Peer-led, free support groups form a vital part of ANAD’s services. These groups—both in-person and virtual—are conducted nationwide, fostering a sense of understanding, empathy, and shared resilience among participants. Their annual conference is a multi-day event bringing together health professionals and individuals affected by eating disorders. The conference serves as a platform for learning about new research and treatment modalities and offers an opportunity to network and connect with others who understand the journey to recovery.
5. Eating Disorders Resource Catalogue
The Eating Disorders Resource Catalogue serves as a one-stop solution for anyone seeking comprehensive information about eating disorders. It has an extensive collection of resources including books that delve deep into personal experiences and scientific aspects of eating disorders, recovery-oriented blogs, and websites. The catalogue also provides details about globally located treatment centers and support groups. A unique feature of this catalogue is the inclusion of audio-visual resources, making it accessible to diverse learning preferences.
6. Project HEAL
At the heart of Project HEAL is the firm belief that everyone has the potential to fully recover from an eating disorder. This organization is committed to delivering access to care, providing financial assistance to individuals who cannot afford the treatment they need. They also run a recovery mentorship program that pairs those in recovery with trained mentors who themselves have successfully overcome an eating disorder. This organization also recognizes the importance of reducing societal stigma associated with eating disorders. Through education and advocacy, they challenge prevailing myths and misconceptions about these disorders, fostering a more understanding society.
7. Beat Eating Disorders (UK)
As the UK’s largest eating disorder charity, Beat is dedicated to ending the pain and suffering caused by eating disorders. The range of services provided by Beat is diverse and robust. Their helpline services offer immediate support and guidance to anyone affected by eating disorders. Online support groups and message boards allow individuals to share their experiences and gain insights from others in similar situations. The ‘Eat it. Beat it.’ campaign aims to promote self-care and recovery among individuals with eating disorders, encouraging them to regain control over their lives.
8. Eating Disorders Anonymous
Eating Disorders Anonymous provides a twelve-step approach for recovery, fostering a supportive fellowship that encourages members to share their experiences openly. Their program, inspired by the Alcoholics Anonymous model, promotes self-acceptance, self-love, and healing through mutual support and sharing. They offer daily phone meetings and an extensive collection of educational literature. Through the process, members develop coping mechanisms to live a fulfilling life free from the clutches of eating disorders.
9. International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals (IAEDP)
IAEDP is a professional organization focused on promoting excellence among professionals treating eating disorders. They offer an advanced certification process that ensures professionals are equipped with the latest knowledge and skills. The IAEDP also hosts regular symposiums and training programs, enabling professionals to stay current with the latest research, trends, and treatment modalities in the field. Additionally, networking opportunities offered by IAEDP promote collaboration and mutual learning among professionals.
10. Bulimia.com
As an all-encompassing online resource, Bulimia.com provides detailed information about bulimia and other eating disorders. They offer resources such as a directory of treatment centers, a curated list of self-help and professional-authored books, recovery programs, and informative articles. These resources educate readers about the nature and implications of eating disorders, giving them the tools to understand and address their situation better.
11. Multi-service Eating Disorders Association (MEDA)
With a mission to prevent the continuing spread of eating disorders through educational awareness and early detection, MEDA provides a wide array of resources and services. They offer educational resources to schools and communities and also offer consultation and therapy services for individuals and families affected by eating disorders. Their focus is on community outreach programs, professional training, and the promotion of evidence-based prevention programs. Through these initiatives, MEDA helps individuals understand the importance of early intervention and recovery.
12. Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation
The Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation is a unique resource offering aid to those suffering from Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a condition often linked with eating disorders. They offer various resources, including up-to-date information on diagnosis and treatment options, updates on the latest research in the field, and personal stories from individuals who have successfully overcome BDD. These resources provide individuals with a deeper understanding of their condition and offer hope for recovery.
13. Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders (F.E.A.S.T.)
F.E.A.S.T. is an international organization created for caregivers of eating disorder patients. They provide a host of educational resources, host an online forum for mutual support, and advocate for early intervention and evidence-based treatment. By focusing on the needs of caregivers, F.E.A.S.T. recognizes the essential role they play in the recovery process and provides them with the necessary tools and support.
14. The Body Positive
The Body Positive is a transformative program that offers unique resources and support to people battling eating disorders. Their mission is to inspire individuals to develop a healthy relationship with their bodies and promote self-love and body positivity. The organization provides resources such as educational videos, workshops, and training programs, all aimed at empowering individuals to redefine their beauty standards and move beyond self-destructive behaviors. Their comprehensive curriculum is a potent tool, helping individuals transform their attitudes towards their bodies and embrace a self-compassionate, health-focused lifestyle.
15. Recovery Warriors
Recovery Warriors is a digital platform created to support those in the fight against eating disorders. The platform offers a range of resources, including a recovery-focused podcast, an app designed to aid recovery, and an online magazine. These mediums feature inspiring recovery stories, professional advice, and practical strategies for overcoming eating disorders, fostering a community of warriors who are determined to reclaim their lives.
With these comprehensive resources and supportive communities in hand, remember that the journey to recovery is a shared one. Each step taken towards recovery is a step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
