In support groups, people share experiences, information and things that have helped them to both make connections and provide encouragement to others. For many people with eating disorders, seeking support from others means a faster and easier recovery. The wide variety in eating disorders has led to a wide range of available support, which can be of self-help type or professionally mediated.
Research
In a 2010 study of patients with binge eating disorders, published in the "Journal of Consulting and Clinical Pathology," scientists at the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, led by Frances L. Lynch, found that a cognitive-behavioral guided self-help group saved patients $427 in treatment costs over the course of a year, compared to those who had the usual treatment . Researchers led by Abby McCormack of Nottingham Trent University in the United Kingdom reported in the January/February 2010 issue of "Computers, Informatics, Nursing: CIN" that online self-help groups for eating disorders were a low-cost and easily-accessed intervention.
Self-Help vs. Professionally-Led
Groups for eating disorders can be either self-help or professionally-led. Some self-help groups follow the 12-step model of recovery from an addiction, such as Eating Disorders Anonymous or Overeaters Anonymous. Self-help groups are often free or operate on donations. Professionally-led groups are led by a therapist who specializes in eating disorder treatments and often include a therapeutic component. While most professional treatment usually requires payment, some professionals will offer free support groups.
Group Philosophies
Groups follow a variety of models and philosophies, whether peer- or professionally-led. For example, Overeaters Anonymous follows the 12-step model of recovery, welcomes anyone who struggles with compulsive eating and focuses on the Alcoholics Anonymous idea of abstinence. Eating Disorders Anonymous follows a 12-step model as well, yet encourages balance over abstinence as a goal. ANAD, also known as the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, helps people develop support groups and works with an eight-step self-help program.
Online Support
Online support communities can be a valuable way to connect for people who aren't inclined to seek out a face-to-face support group. The website Something-fishy.org offers a variety of support options for people with eating disorders and their families ranging from news, information and pro-recovery forums to areas devoted to family support. It also has a section that describes other online support options.
Warning
With the advent of online support has come a dangerous new influence: pro-anorexia websites. These sites claim that having an eating disorder is a lifestyle choice, not a potentially deadly illness. Such sites provide information and tips on restricting and purging and "thinspiration" pictures featuring models who are underweight. These groups do not promote recovery but rather encourage weight loss and can lead to worsening symptoms.
Locating a Group
While online support can be searched at the Something-fishy website, the site EDreferral lists free and professionally-run support groups by state, as does ANAD. You can also call the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline at 800-931-2237 for a referral to support groups in your area.
References
- PubMed.gov: Cost-Effectiveness of Guided Self-Help Treatment for Recurrent Binge Eating
- PubMed.gov: Individuals with Eating Disorders and the Use of Online Support Groups as a Form of Social Support
- Eating Disorders Anonymous:
- Overeaters Anonymous
- ANAD: National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders
