NEDA Navigator Guidebook
Not for public distribution. For exclusive use by official NEDA Navigators
Be careful about providing testimony of how you “bravely fought this illness
alone.” Perhaps you did, but most do not – the vast majority of those who recover from
their illness do it only with the ongoing help of trained professionals. Remember that
isolation is one of the most difficult aspects of eating disorders for many sufferers. Make
sure you reinforce that it is courageous and necessary to reach out for support and
guidance during the recovery process.
Emphasize the seriousness of eating disorders without portraying them as
hopeless. Always encourage people to seek help for themselves or loved ones who are
suffering. Recovery is often a long and expensive process – but it is achievable and there
are many options available.
Always provide a resource list. Include contact numbers, addresses or web links to
information and local and national treatment resources. Otherwise you risk raising fears
and concerns without providing an outlet for support and vital help. The NEDA website,
www.NationalEatingDisorders.org, and toll-free Information and Referral Helpline,
1-800-931-2237, provide extensive resources nationwide.
If you need more information, ask! The National Eating Disorders Association has
the latest recovery resources and can connect you to treatment professionals or
educational outreach volunteers in your area. The NEDA website and informational
handouts provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on eating disorders
including statistics that can add relevance and importance to your stories. Some specific
facts sheets that may assist in your coverage include “Statistics,” “What is an Eating
Disorder,” “What Causes Eating Disorders,” “kNOw Dieting,” “Listen to Your Body,”
“Sharing with EEEase” and “Treatment of Eating Disorders.”
Thank you for using your voice to highlight the seriousness of eating
disorders and provide hope, understanding and resources to others!
Guidelines for Sharing Stories of Recovery ▪ Page 3
©2012 National Eating Disorders Association. All Rights Reserved.
Reproduction or other use of this outline without the express written consent of the National Eating Disorders
Association is prohibited.
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