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Resources for Homeless Individuals Struggling With an Eating Disorder
Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
Eating disorders affect individuals regardless of socioeconomic background and ultimately do not discriminate when it comes to the type of person that can develop these fatal diseases. A stigma about eating disorders is that they are diseases of “vanity” that people choose to have, particularly those that are seeking to be a certain body type or dress size. However, this could not be further from the truth, as these psychiatric illnesses arise from the presence of multiple factors.
For individuals who may be homeless and dealing with little to no income, food insecurity can be a monumental factor that contributes to the development of an eating disorder. For someone who is unsure of when there next meal may be coming, this can dramatically influence a relationship with food. For some people, this may create the “Feast or famine” mentality, in which food is binge upon whenever the opportunity arises.
Dealing with starvation or bouts of fasting and irregular food intake can also severely distort an overall relationship with food. For a homeless individual who may be susceptible to having an eating disorder, starvation and malnutrition can further exacerbate mental health issues that may be present.
Finding Resources As a Homeless Individual
Regardless of socioeconomic background, everyone is deserving of help, care, and eating disorder treatment. Whatever the situation that may have caused a person to become homeless, connecting to resources is important for addressing any potential mental health issues, finding a regular food source, shelter, etc.
Several resources exist that can temporarily help a homeless person get back on their feet during times of crisis and need. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for example, has a resource locator to connect homeless individuals, or those at risk of becoming homeless, with local agencies that can provide housing, food, safety and health support [1].
Mental health care is also just as important as having physical needs met, such as housing and food. Organizations such as the Treatment Referral Routing Service, offer free and confidential information services to individuals and families facing a mental health issue [2]. This service can be helpful for a homeless individual who may be struggling with an eating disorder and who needs a referral to a local treatment facility and/or support group.
If you or someone you love is homeless and dealing with an eating disorder, know that there are resources available to help you connect with the treatment you deserve to begin the recovery process.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What are some challenges eating disorder sufferers who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless face when it comes to seeking treatment?
About the Author: Crystal is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a specialty focus in eating disorders, maternal/child health and wellness, and intuitive eating. Combining clinical experience with a love of social media and writing, Crystal serves as the Special Projects Coordinator for Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope, where her passion to help others find recovery and healing is integrated into each part of her work.
As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Crystal has dedicated her career to helping others establish a healthy relationship with food and body through her work with EDH/AH and nutrition private practice.
References:
[1]: HUD Exchange, “Resources for Homeless Persons”, https://www.hudexchange.info/homelessness-assistance/resources-for-homeless-persons/The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on April 30, 2016
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
