Friends and Family
The Friends and Family Support Group was started to meet the needs of family members and friends of loved ones struggling with an eating disorder. It is frustrating and confusing to care for someone who has disordered eating. You may feel angry, helpless and at times hopeless. As a spouse, parent or friend of a person with disordered eating you automatically become involved. This involvement often ends in battles and struggles.
The support group offers support, feedback and a caring, safe environment in which to express concerns. It is a group where you can talk openly about your experience and receive support from others sharing the same experience. Group members are encouraged to share their thoughts, feelings and concerns. Topics are decided by the group and discussion is generated as a result of member participation. Participation by all members is encouraged, however silence is respected.
The group is facilitated by an experienced professional specializing in eating disorders. The number of participants will vary, but the average number in each group ranges from 8 to 12.
To ensure a safe environment confidentiality is highly encouraged within this group. Additionally, because there are loved ones attending the Eating Disorders Support Group it is encouraged that only broad topics of discussion and questions, not specifics, are discussed between family members attending the different groups.
The Support Group meets the 2nd and 4th Monday evenings of the month. Starting time is 6:30 PM and closing at 8:00 PM. There are no fees to attend the group.
The friends and Family Group as well as the Eating Disorder Support Group are co-sponsored by ANAD (National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders) New Beginnings Counseling and AGMC Department of Psychiatry.
For additional information call New Beginnings Counseling Carolyn Pickler at 330-666-5004 or email carolyn@newbeginningscounseling.org. JoAnna Cline can be reached at 330-808-1311 or email joanna@newbeginningscounseling.org.