For many of us, today’s times feel more uncertain than ever. The world we live in feels upended and unfamiliar. Social distancing, quarantines, business closures, school closures, work disruptions, unemployment concerns, economic challenges, health fears – the list of concerns seems to go on indefinitely. Undoubtedly, we are in the midst of tremendous challenges.

For those working toward eating disorder recovery, these new challenges come in addition to the challenge of recovery itself. Recovery is challenging in “normal” circumstances. Recovery may seem even more challenging in our “new normal” circumstances. Eating disorders often provide a false sense of control in situations where we feel upended, uncertain, or out of control. Eating disorders also tend to thrive in isolation. Today, much of our world feels uncertain. To flatten the curve of this pandemic, we are intentionally keeping our distance from one another. Uncertainty and isolation can feel quite present these days.

How do we sustain and build upon our recovery efforts in light of these obstacles? The good news is: we are not alone. Despite the physical distance from one another, we remain an resourceful, passionate, caring recovery community. We are committed to supporting and encouraging one another through these challenging times.

With that in mind, we wanted to offer you some resources to support your recovery while we keep our distance.

Reasons Virtual Intensive Outpatient Eating Disorder Program

Our virtual intensive outpatient program launched on April 1st. This program replaces our in-person outpatient services to allow adult patients to continue to access services from their homes. Through this telehealth program, we provide the same standard of excellence that our patients receive in-person. The program includes:

  • Up to 5 days per week of services, 10:30 am – 2 pm
  • Therapist- and dietitian-led process and skills groups
  • Dietitian-led supported meals
  • Weekly individual telehealth sessions with a collaborative team including a psychiatrist, therapist and dietitian
  • HIPAA compliant software for telehealth to protect your privacy

If you or someone you love is interested in participating, please contact our Admissions Team by email or by phone at 844-573-2766.

Online Support Groups

Beyond clinical programming, community can be a tremendous support to your eating disorder recovery. While connecting in person can be particularly meaningful, connecting online can break down geographic barriers and open the door to new relationships with others in the broader recovery network. Here are a few ideas on places to connect safely with others working toward eating disorder recovery:

  • Reasons Alumni Facebook Group – If you are a Reasons alum, please request to join our private Facebook group! If you have any challenges joining the group, please don’t hesitate to email us to request access. Check back often for invites to Virtual Alumni Support Group meetings!
  • NEDA COVID-19 Resources – The National Eating Disorders Association has provided a number of tools on their website to support your recovery efforts during this unique time. Explore their site to find videos, helpline contact information, free and low cost support groups, and more.
  • ANAD Online Support Groups – The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders offers free online support groups several days per week, including a support group specifically geared toward the LGBTQ community.
  • Instagram Meal Support Group – This newly formed Instagram group is offering free community care meal support sessions with clinicians on Instagram Live.
  • Eating Disorder Hope Online Support Groups – For a small fee, ED Hope offers an array of support groups focused on various aspects of recovery.

Additional Support

Sometimes, virtual resources are not enough. If you or a loved one are struggling with an eating disorder at this time, we encourage you to reach out to a professional to seek treatment. Many treatment providers, including Reasons, are still offering inpatient and residential services for patients requiring a higher level of care. Please do not be afraid to reach out and seek guidance in this challenging time. You can reach our Admissions team by email or by phone at 844-573-2766.

Wherever you are along the recovery journey, and wherever you are amidst COVID-19, please know that we are here for you and you are not alone. Whether online or in person, you have a community that is standing at the ready to support you, to encourage you, and to give you hope. We will get through this, and we will get through it together.