Help & Support

If eating behaviors, thoughts about food/weight, or body image concerns are interfering with your daily life, relationships, health, or happiness, it's time to seek help. You don't need to wait until things get worse. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.

Your first appointment typically involves an assessment where the provider will ask about your eating behaviors, physical health, mental health history, and goals. Be honest—this helps them create the best treatment plan for you. It's okay to feel nervous.

Look for providers who specialize in eating disorders and use evidence-based treatments (like CBT, FBT, or DBT). Check their credentials, read reviews, and don't hesitate to try a few providers before settling on one. Finding the right fit is important.

Many insurance plans cover eating disorder treatment, but coverage varies. Check your plan's mental health benefits. Under the Mental Health Parity Act, mental health conditions should be covered similarly to physical health conditions. Contact your insurance or NEDA for help navigating coverage.

Options include: sliding scale providers, community mental health centers, university clinics, online therapy options, support groups (often free), and organizations like Project HEAL that provide treatment grants. Don't let cost prevent you from seeking help—resources exist.

Recovery timelines vary greatly. Some people see significant improvement in months, while others take years. What matters is that full recovery is possible. Focus on your individual progress rather than comparing to others.

While peer support and self-help resources can be valuable supplements, eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that typically require professional treatment for full recovery. Don't try to do this alone—professional help significantly improves outcomes.

Express concern without judgment, listen more than you talk, avoid comments about weight or appearance, encourage professional help, educate yourself, be patient, and take care of your own wellbeing too. Visit our How to Help Someone guide for detailed advice.