*Updated November 25, 2020
We are now experiencing the global impact of COVID 19. The recommendation from the CDC is to stay at home and self-quarantine in order to “flatten the curve” and save the most vulnerable in our society from contracting the virus. While social distancing is the right thing to do, it proves challenging for our mental health.
Therapeutic & community supports help many in their journey to eating disorder recovery. Luckily, with the virtual capabilities available today “social distancing” does not have to mean complete social isolation during COVID 19.
Many therapists, including myself, are offering virtual therapy in lieu of being able to meet in-person. If you or someone you know could benefit from virtual therapy during this time, please reach out to me at monique@moniqueblmhc.com.
Additionally, here are a few online resources that I have been informed of for those struggling with eating disorders and their loved ones. (I will continue to update this blog post if I hear of further online resources.)
The Eating Disorders Foundation
EDF is offering a range of virtual support groups including an eating disorder support group for those ages 30+ and a men’s eating disorder recovery support group. Find more info here: https://www.eatingdisorderfoundation.org/get-help/support-groups/
Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association
MEDA is a local Massachusetts nonprofit organization that supports people struggling with eating disorders as well as their families. They are currently offering both free and paid online support groups. They also host a family and loved ones support group that is always free.
They also offer recovery-oriented content and instagram live interviews on their instagram account.
Instagram Live Meal Support
@covid19eatingsupport is offering free, live “100% Health at Every Size meal support every hour starting at 8am EDT & going around the clock so you can eat your meals & snacks in the company of others!”
The Alliance for Eating Disorders
The Alliance for Eating Disorders is a non-profit supporting those struggling with eating disorders and their families.
The Alliance is offering free virtual support check-ins, one for family members of those struggling and one for those working on eating disorder recovery themselves.
The Alliance also offers helpful instagram live sessions and recovery-oriented content on their instagram account.
Free Online Support Groups offered by Treatment Centers
Family Support Group by Alsana
Eating Recovery Center is offering a wide range of support groups including meal support groups that are open to ERC alumni as well as community members. Find more info here: https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/alumni/virtual-support/online-support-groups
Nalgona Positivity Pride
Nalgona Positivity Pride offers a series of lectures and workshops virtually - open to all, but more specifically focused to support BIPOC struggling with body image and/or disordered eating.