Are you or a loved one struggling with an eating disorder? You’re not alone. Up to 7 million women and 1 million men across the United States have some type of eating disorder. While 95% of those with eating disorders are between the ages of 12 and 25, these issues can affect people of all ages, genders, races and ethnic backgrounds. Fortunately, there are resources at your disposal, including nationally available eating disorder helplines, with trained professionals who can provide support and guidance.
It’s not uncommon for those struggling with eating disorders to have other underlying mental health issues. Research shows that 94% of those with binge eating disorders can struggle with comorbidities such as mood disorders, substance abuse and PTSD.
Seeking help for eating issues is the most important step you can take, and with the right resources, you can start down the path to overcoming them. Below is a look at several nationally available eating disorder resources.
Mental Health Hotline
The professionals at the Mental Health Hotline are trained to provide support for eating disorders and other mental health disorders. The eating disorder helpline is available around the clock and staffed with caring, empathetic professionals who are there to listen and provide you with further assistance.
(866) 903-3787
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders (ANAD)
ANAD provides support to those struggling with anorexia nervosa and related eating disorders, as well as their loved ones. Trained professionals are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to provide encouragement and support, answer questions and provide referral services. If you need support outside of the hotline hours, leave a message and they’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
(888) 375-7767
National Alliance for Eating Disorder Helpline
The National Alliance for Eating Disorders provides individuals and family members with guidance and support, relevant educational materials and referrals to additional resources and services. Licensed therapists staff the organization’s free hotline for disordered eating, which is available Monday through Friday from 9 p.m. to 7 p.m.
(866) 662-1235
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
The National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline provides callers with information, resources and support for all types of mental health issues, including eating disorders. It also operates a teen and young adult helpline. Its hotline is available Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Individuals struggling with an eating disorder can call or email NAMI at helpline@nami.org. You can also text ‘HelpLine’ to 62640 if you’re an adult; ‘Friend’ if you’re a teen or young adult.
Call: (800) 950-6264
Text: HelpLine or Friend to 62640
Diabulimia
Diabulimia is specifically for those struggling with diabetes and an eating disorder. Its staff includes insurance specialists who can help you better understand exactly what is and isn’t covered under your insurance plan, as well as those who can provide referrals to additional resources and services. Diabulimia’s hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
(425) 985-3635
National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
If you or your loved one is experiencing an emergency, having suicidal thoughts or in danger of harming themselves or others, consider reaching out to the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Trained crisis workers are on hand 24-7 to provide support and understanding. They can also connect you with emergency services, provide you with the appropriate referrals and help you create a safety plan.
988
Veterans Crisis Line
If you or your loved one is a veteran of the U.S. military, you can access specialized support for disordered eating through the Veterans Crisis Line. This online chat service can provide appropriate referrals, connect you with vital resources and ensure you receive all your eligible VA benefits. The Veterans Crisis Line is free and confidential and available 24-7.
F.E.A.S.T.
F.E.A.S.T. is an international organization that provides support to parents who have children struggling with eating disorders. Its online resource center includes educational information, webinars and forums. The organization also hosts events throughout the year and conducts online support groups for family members. You can contact F.E.A.S.T. directly for more information.
(855) 503-3278
If you or a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, don’t wait another day. It’s always a good time to reach out and get the support you need to take the next step. The Mental Health Hotline is available 24-7, with skilled professionals on call to speak with you day or night.