An eating disorder support group is a powerful tool in the recovery process. Here you will find the skills and support you need to find the strength within to overcome your illness. You’ll be surrounded by people just like you, which provides a safe place to share your struggles and gain peer support. You’ll also be guided by a professional therapist, intern, recovered person, or loved-one of a person struggling with an eating disorder who can educate you on your illness and teach you the skills to cope with and overcome your eating disorder.
There are many types of eating disorder support groups to choose from:
* Independent Support Groups, which can be held at a private home, high school, university, etc.
* Therapy Group Support, which can be held at a professional therapist’s office.
* 12-Step Support Groups, which are led by peers and can be held at a church, school or donated office space.
* Inpatient or Outpatient Group Support Programs, which are part of an overall eating disorder treatment program and can be held at a treatment center, hospital or rented/donated space.
* Online Support, which consists of an online community of people currently suffering from an eating disorder and people who have recovered. Here you will find education, tips and support from people who have been there and experts to help you along in your recovery. (Please note: Online support groups are a great way to have constant access to information, but be careful; there is no substitute for real human contact, especially for ED sufferers who tend to isolate themselves. Online support groups should be used in conjunction with face-to-face therapy.)
The format for each support group will vary. Depending on the support group, you may discuss topics of spirituality, coping strategies, family issues, general discussion, art therapy, inner-child work, communication, body image, nutritional guidance, or a combination of the above.
Not every topic/format is best for every individual, so it’s important to ask which type of support group it is before joining. If you’re attending a support group as part of a professional eating disorder treatment program, your individual counselor or therapist will be able to place you in one that’s appropriate for you. If you’re seeking an eating disorder support group on your own, here are some questions to ask to help you choose the right one:
* Who leads the support group? Is it lead by a professional or by peers?
* What topics are discussed?
* Are friends, spouses or family allowed to attend?
* How many people are in the group?
* What types of eating disorders do people in the group have?
* What is the group’s philosophy on eating disorders? (i.e.; Do they believe that recovery is possible? That it’s an addiction? A disease?)
* What is the meeting format? Is it a discussion led by one person, or is everyone offered a chance to speak?
Remember, this support group is for you and is meant to help you recover. You want to choose an eating disorder support group that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or visit a few times before committing. If after a few group meetings you don’t feel like it’s a good match, then try another one. Just because you don’t like one group, doesn’t mean you’ll dislike them all. There are many different groups to choose from and you’re bound to find one that’s a perfect fit for you. With that said, make sure you give a group a chance. It can take several visits before you are able to identify with the other people in the group and form a relationship.
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