If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, help is available. Generally, treatment for an eating disorder requires counseling, eating coaching, and support.
The first step to a full recovery is admitting that there is a problem and asking for help. Unfortunately, even when family members confront the ill person about his or her behavior, or physicians make a diagnosis, individuals with eating disorders may deny that they have a problem. Thus, people with anorexia may not receive medical or psychological attention until they have already become dangerously thin and malnourished. People with bulimia are often normal weight and are able to hide their illness from others for years. Eating disorders are most successfully treated when diagnosed early.
Luckily, once someone understands that help is needed, there is an abundance of inexpensive resources dedicated to helping people recover from eating disorders. Read on to learn about some available resources for help with eating disorders.
Online Tools
The following websites are dedicated to preventing and alleviating eating disorders. They also offer a multitude of resources for help:
ANAD– The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders is a non-profit organization that specializes in getting people help, getting involved, or just providing information about eating disorders. They offer access to a helpline and email address you can use to contact someone from their organization. They also offer a list of treatment centers and support groups they are partnered with by state and region.
The ANAD Eating Disorders Helpline, 630-577-1330, takes calls Monday-Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Central Time.
NEDA– National Eating Disorders Association is another non-profit dedicated to battling eating disorders. They offer tons of informational material covering each eating disorder, contributing factors and ways to prevent eating disorders, and treatment and recovery options. They also include educator and coach training kits on how to help people who work with students or athletes who may be struggling with an ED.
Call their toll-free, confidential helpline, Monday-Thursday from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm and Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (EST): 1-800-931-2237
Other Resources
If you or someone you love are suffering from an eating disorder, the following professionals can serve as resources for help:
- Your doctor
- A licensed counselor
- Your Employee Assistance Program
Remember, the first step to recovery is often the hardest, but once you say that you need help, other people’s support can help you move forward.
