Blog Contributed by Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC for Eating Disorder Hope
Having a concentrated effort toward recovery from bulimia will involve a variety of resources, including individual therapy sessions, group therapy, nutritional counseling, and support groups.
Though mainly considered a factor for outpatient care, support groups can be an invaluable tool for recovery support at various stages of bulimia recovery. No matter what point a person may be at in their recovery process from bulimia, support groups can be a helpful part of building strength against eating disorder behaviors, as it involves accountability from a range of individuals who are undergoing a similar experience.
Support Groups Directly Oppose Eating Disorders
The beauty of support groups is how they counter the very nature of eating disorders. These severe psychiatric illnesses, such as Bulimia, are isolating diseases, often keeping a sufferer in silence due to the fear and stigma that often surrounds these disorders.
Support groups encourage the opportunity to process many of the difficulties that are involved in eating disorder recovery within a safe environment that promotes healing.
Being able to connect with other people who may be experiencing similar struggles or who have previously walked through the journey of eating disorder recovery can provide the much needed encouragement to continue on in the battle for your life and freedom.
Finding a Support Group for Eating Disorders
Finding a support group for bulimia recovery is easier than ever thanks to the multiple resources that are now accessible online. Support groups typically meet on a weekly basis and can vary from traditional in person meetings to online skype sessions to teleconferences.
Many support groups are free to attend and facilitated by a health care professional who understands the complexity of bulimia. Support groups can also be a helpful way to involve family members or friends, who may not fully understand the intricacies that are involved with eating disorder recovery.
Professional Support for Eating Disorders
Whether you are in the beginning stages of your eating disorder recovery or a veteran in your journey, regularly attending a support group can fortify your efforts as you work to overcome bulimia.
If you are already working with a professional treatment team, discuss the option of support groups with your health care professional to determine how to best incorporate this in your treatment plan. If you are interested in joining a support group for bulimia, check out the Eating Disorder Hope Support Group directory to find options close to you.
Other valuable resources for finding support groups include:
- The National Eating Disorder Association
- The Academy for Eating Disorders
- Eating Disorders Anonymous
Perhaps one of the most beautiful reminds of support groups is that you are not alone in this journey as you fight to regain your life from bulimia in your recovery.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What is your experience with Bulimia Recovery Support Groups?