NEDA Navigator Guidebook
Not for public distribution. For exclusive use by official NEDA Navigators
Guidelines for Sharing Stories of Recovery
As someone with a personal connection to the field of eating disorders, be it through
your own experience or that of a loved one, you are in a unique position to offer hope,
understanding and vital information to others. At the same time, it is important to
carefully consider the potential impact of your message on the public, as well the
effects of self-disclosure on your personal well-being. Research and anecdotal evidence
show that even with the best intentions, personal testimonies can provide dangerous
ideas that may contribute to disordered-eating behaviors. Furthermore, an individual
sharing their story may be left feeling exposed, vulnerable to judgment, and/or
emotionally overwhelmed. Below are strategies to help you present your story in a
useful way while protecting your personal well-being. An effective recovery story helps
lead others toward health, hope and understanding.
How to Protect Your Personal Well-Being
Be committed to your own recovery . Before becoming an advocate for eating
disorders awareness, be sure you are first and foremost an advocate for you! Sharing
your story is a big responsibility. Understand that it may feel like a lot of pressure and
will likely bring up a lot of emotions. It is imperative to stay focused on your own
recovery before taking steps to help others. If you are currently working with a
professional, or have worked with one in the past, please ask for their feedback
regarding your decision to share your story.
Recognize your limits. While you are an expert of your own experience, remember
that this experience is unique to you. It is important to not answer questions that you
don’t know the answers to or provide advice that suggests “this is what works for
everyone.” Remember, since you are not an expert or professional in the field, you are
not responsible for being someone’s therapist or for her or his recovery. You can,
however, help to put individuals in contact with professionals specializing in eating
disorders. You might even think about inviting a professional to participate in or be
available for questions during your presentation if one is not already scheduled to be
here. Know what you are and are not willing to share . Just because you’ve taken this
step to share your story does not mean you have to disclose every aspect of your
experience. Keep a commitment to yourself not to disclose more than you are
comfortable with. Be armed with phrases such as “That is more than I am willing to
share” or “I believe you have enough understanding without talking about.” This will
help protect you should questions arise that you are not comfortable answering.
Guidelines for Sharing Stories of Recovery ▪ Page 1
©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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