Eating Disorders Blog

In association with the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders (ANAD), Montecatini is sponsoring two weekly support groups for individuals with eating disorders and family members whose lives have been impacted by their loved ones struggles:

Eating Disorder Support Group

• Mondays, 6:45 to 8 p.m.
• Group leader: Danielle Lullo, Montecatini Executive Director
• Next meeting: April 5

Family Support Group

• Thursdays, 6:45 to 8 p.m.
• Group leader: Danielle Beck-Ellsworth, Montecatini Program Therapist
• First meeting: April 15

Both groups will meet in our outpatient office in the La Costa Towne Center (7720 El Camino Real, Suite 2F [Upstairs], Carlsbad CA 92009).

Participation is free of charge, no reservations are required, and no prior association with Montecatini is necessary to join. Both groups are open to men and women.

For more information about Montecatinis ANAD Eating Disorder Support Groups call (760) 436-8930 or e-mail criddle@crchealth.com

Labels: support

Posted By: Aspen/CRC 0 Comments

Binge eating affects approximately 3.5 percent of women and 2 percent of men in the United States, yet medical professionals and much of the public remain unfamiliar with this eating disorder. Also referred to as compulsive overeating, binge eating is not yet officially recognized as a clinical disorder; however, some experts believe that it is every bit as serious as bulimia and anorexia.

During the holidays, with the increased emphasis on food and family meals, all eating disorder sufferers face heightened distress. However, binge eaters may find themselves particularly challenged, in the same way that alcoholics are challenged by the holiday atmosphere. In the words of one recovering binge eater, on Thanksgiving and Christmas, "You have this license to really go out of control, and it's acceptable behavior. Nobody notices that you're eating 12 pieces of pie, because you're just trying each one there."

Self-help groups such as Overeaters Anonymous (OA) can provide opportunities for binge eaters to find support and begin the process of recovering. According to some recovering binge eaters, drastic life changes are necessary.

One binge eater described how he used to order eight or 10 platters at a Chinese restaurant and think nothing of it. But, now that he is in recovery, he doesn't let family bring desserts to his home; he doesn't buy Halloween candy to distribute to trick-or-treaters; and he didn't even have a cake at his wedding. During the holidays, he attends additional OA meeting to help steady his resolve and commitment to lead a healthier lifestyle.

(Source: www.suntimes.com)

Labels: binge-eating, support, compulsive overeating

Posted By: Aspen Education Group 0 Comments

Joanna Kandel of West Palm Beach, Florida, has struggled with eating disorders since the age of 12. In 2001, as a senior at the University of Central Florida, she founded the Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness. The alliance is a non-profit organization that promotes positive body image and disseminates information on the prevention of eating disorders.

Now 30, Kandel is the Executive Director of the alliance, which offers free services throughout Florida and nationwide. Services include seminars, workshops, treatment referrals, support, fundraisers, and informational packets. These services have been provided directly to over 100,000 people. Ms. Kandel has appeared on "The Today Show" and "NBC Nightly News" to discuss her work. In 2009, Ms. Kandel's work with the alliance earned her a Jefferson Award, a prestigious award for community service. (Source: www.tcpalm.com)

Labels: awareness, support, prevention

Posted By: Aspen Education Group 0 Comments