NEDIC
March 19, 2020, 1:49 p.m.
We want to acknowledge that things are hard right now. These are uncertain times, and the situation is changing rapidly. There are challenges that might be unique to or more difficult for folks living with ED than the rest of the population. It isn’t easy to follow a routine or a meal plan when there is so much disruption. It is really stressful to see photos of empty grocery shelves, or to go shopping and find that your staples or safe foods are unavailable. Having more or different foods than usual on hand can feel stressful.
It is natural and understandable to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or upset. Try to develop new routines where you can, and offer yourself gentleness when that doesn’t work out. This could be a time to practice or develop new coping tools. Reach out (virtually – using Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, etc) to your communities and loved ones. Take up a new hobby, or devote time to the hobbies you’ve set aside over the years. Colour, read books, take baths, listen to music, watch films, light candles, and take solace in things that you enjoy. Take care of yourself and, if you have the capacity to do so, others who are more vulnerable than you. Take breaks from the news, and try to do something offline for a few minutes before you go to bed. Practice social distancing.
Trying your “best” might look different from day to day. Grant yourself and those around you as much care and compassion as you can. Forgive yourself for the bad days, and remember that one bad day is just that – one bad day – not an inevitable downward spiral. Recovery has ups and downs. They might be different now than they were last year. Even though the news feels all-encompassing, there is still a future to build towards.
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We are still open. Most NEDIC staff are working remotely, and you can still connect with the helpline in a variety of ways.
Live chat and the NEDIC helpline services (1-866-NEDIC-20 and 416-340-4156) are available:
Monday - Thursday 9am - 9pm EST
Friday 9am - 5pm EST
Saturday - Sunday 12pm-5pm EST
Emails to nedic@uhn.ca will be answered during these hours.
We are still here to offer information, referrals, resources, and support. We recognise that this is a challenging time and that reaching out for support is of vital importance. We also want to note that referrals might look different for a while. Some providers have been able to move services online, but many in-person services are closed for now. Support might just mean an ear to listen while you vent, or someone to help you through a particularly tough moment. We’re here to chat, to listen, and to help.
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Our good friends at BEAT in the UK have put together this resource regarding coronavirus for folks living with eating disorders and their caregivers.
Here are some resources that may be helpful. None of these are paid partnerships of any kind. We’ll be continually updating this list.
Eating Disorder Community Groups in Canada
Bounce Back Online from the CMHA
