Online meetings for eating disorders are a great way for people who have an eating disorder to share information and get help. The best part is that these types of meetings are available to anyone. Some of the sites that you can find include The Lotus Collaborative, the Alliance for Eating Disorders, and Morningside Chats. You can also find the Crisis Text Line.
Alliance for Eating Disorders
The Eating Disorders Coalition for Research, Policy and Action recently held a virtual gathering for its advocacy groups. The meeting, which took place in August, focused on improving communication and unity. It was hosted by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Office of Women’s Health.
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The Eating Disorders Coalition’s mission is to improve the lives of those suffering from eating disorders through education, research, and advocacy. Currently, the group is working to expand Medicare coverage for eating disorders and protect provisions in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that affect patients.
Center for Discovery
Eating disorder support groups can provide a sense of community, help patients find recovery support, and serve as a complement to treatment programs. They are also a great source of education for those affected by eating disorders.
The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) offers free weekly in-person and virtual support groups for people suffering from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and other eating disorders. ANAD is the oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to the prevention and treatment of eating disorders.
Another nonprofit, the Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association (MESDA), is devoted to helping people in the New England area recover from eating disorders. MEDA has six support groups, including those for adults, adolescents, and children.
The Lotus Collaborative
The Lotus Collaborative provides a supportive virtual community of support for people who have an eating disorder or are recovering from binge eating. There is no formal diagnosis required to join the group. It is offered free of charge. This is a great way to make connections, discuss issues, and learn new coping skills.
As part of its holistic approach to recovery, the Lotus Collaborative offers a range of treatment programs, including outpatient therapy, partial hospitalization, and transitional living. Each of these programs uses a variety of evidence-based approaches to help patients overcome their eating disorders.
Morningside Chats
For those of us with eating disorders, there is a silver lining in the form of support groups. Although some may find it challenging to get out of the house, the internet has made it possible to keep in touch with those who can provide the much needed emotional and physical support. One such group is The Aviary, an online support group that is geared towards mothers of children suffering from anorexia, bulimia or any other disorder that makes you feel like you’re going insane.
This particular group is actually free and the only caveat is that you have to be a member of their Facebook page to take part in the group’s many perks. Nonetheless, this is a great way to make some new friends and learn about what your loved ones are dealing with.
Crisis Text Line
An eating disorder hotline is a free resource that can offer support for people suffering from any kind of eating and body image problems. These services are available 24 hours a day and can help people find a way to manage their disorder.
Eating disorders are a serious condition, and often require professional treatment. However, many people do not know where to begin. A hotline may be the first step in getting the support they need to recover.
Hotlines are anonymous, which helps reduce the initial stigma of talking about an eating disorder. The hotline can also answer questions about the disorder, and can refer people to treatment resources.
Southern Smash
The Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness is a non-profit organization that has created a number of helpful resources for those affected by eating disorders. They have a database of clinicians and experts in the field, and provide a host of programs and services. Among other things, they have a free, weekly therapist-led support group. This event aims to educate those affected by eating disorders and help them to find the support they need to succeed.
The Alliance has also created the Southern Smash program, which brings a number of unique smashing events to college campuses. One of these is the “Let it Go” balloon. It is a fun and interactive way to get students to think about their bodies and what it means to be healthy.
Moving Forward
Whether you are looking for an online support group for eating disorders or just want to connect with others who have experienced this mental health condition, there are a number of sites available. These support groups provide a safe and confidential place for people in recovery from an eating disorder to talk about their experiences.
The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing information and support to those who suffer from anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and other related eating disorders. They offer free, online support and training for individuals and families who are affected by these disorders.