Eating Disorders
Common types of eating disorders are: Anorexia Nervosa, an intense fear of weight gain leads to extreme food restriction and weight loss; Bulimia Nervosa, which is categorized by cycles of binge eating followed by purging to avoid weight gain; and Binge Eating Disorder; a condition categorized by frequent episodes of eating large amounts of food, often in secret and without purging. These disorders are classified as mental health conditions, and can cause unhealthy eating behaviors and thoughts about food, weight, and body image. These disorders can lead to serious physical and emotional issues but are treatable with therapy, medical care, and support.
Maine Resources
Crossroads Maine - Eating Disorder Treatment Center - Crossroads offers specialized treatment for women dealing with eating disorders, often alongside co-occurring conditions like addiction. The Portland, Maine-based center provides integrated, individualized programs that address both the physical and mental health aspects of recovery, helping women build positive relationships with food, body image, and overall wellness. Services include residential treatment, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient options.
Eating Disorders Association of Maine - The EDAM (Eating Disorders Association of Maine) promotes health and wellness “at every size” by offering resources, education, and support across Maine for individuals affected by eating disorders. EDAM connects families, providers, and communities with tools for prevention, treatment, and advocacy to build an informed, supportive environment. The organization’s website includes information on local treatment providers, self-help tools, and educational materials tailored for caregivers, healthcare professionals, and educators.
Eating Disorder Support Groups in Maine - This resource links to a page of eating disorder support groups in Maine. These support groups cater to different demographics–some to women & other adults, while others cater to children & adolescents. For more information, visit the linked website.
Maine CDC - Eating Disorders Prevention & Treatment - This page outlines the prevalence and impact of eating disorders, focusing on youth and young adults. It highlights risk factors, provides statistics, and lists resources available statewide, including treatment teams in various communities. Additionally, it details initiatives for prevention, education, and support to promote healthy body image and eating habits. For a full guide, visit the linked website.
New England Eating Disorders (NEED) Program - Sweetser’s NEED Program–Located in Saco, ME–offers various outpatient options for children, adolescents, and adults with eating disorders, including individual and family therapy, nutritional counseling, and group sessions. They also provide Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) for those needing more structured support. These programs help patients build coping skills, develop healthier eating behaviors, and foster emotional resilience.
Northern Light Health - Eating Disorders and Youth - "Eating Disorders and Youth" is a guide, put out by Northern Light Health, helps caregivers and family members to identify signs of eating disorders in children and young adults. Additionally, this resource provides practical tips for starting supportive conversations and finding professional help. It aims to empower caregivers and educators to offer early support and build a nurturing community for affected youth.
Regional Resources
Parkland Medical Center - Eating Disorder Treatment - Parkland Medical Center's Reflections Eating Disorders Center in Derry, NH, offers comprehensive outpatient treatment for adolescents and adults with eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating. Their program includes individualized care plans managed by a multidisciplinary team, family-based therapy, and treatments for co-occurring conditions like anxiety and depression. Services focus on medical, psychological, and therapeutic interventions to address the complex causes of eating disorders.
Walden Behavioral Care - Offers specialized treatment for a range of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating, through diverse programs such as day treatment, inpatient, residential, and virtual care. With locations in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Georgia, their services prioritize inclusive, evidence-based approaches, addressing medical, emotional, and psychological factors. They also provide support for co-occurring mental health conditions and foster a collaborative, patient-centered recovery environment. Additional resources include education and community support. Resources tailored specifically for LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking eating disorder treatment are also available. Check out their website for more detailed information on these topics and more.
National Resources
Alliance for Eating Disorders - The National Alliance for Eating Disorders offers a range of virtual resources designed to support individuals affected by eating disorders, as well as their loved ones and healthcare professionals. Their Virtual Support Groups provide free, therapist-led sessions tailored to various needs, including pro-recovery, LGBTQ+ support, and family-focused groups. The Eating Disorder Helpline, staffed by licensed therapists, offers compassionate guidance, personalized referrals, and emotional support. Additionally, the Resource Library contains educational tools, infographics, and advocacy templates aimed at increasing awareness and promoting recovery. These services work to reduce stigma, enhance access to care, and provide culturally sensitive support. Visit their website to learn more.
ANAD - The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) is a nonprofit organization providing free peer support services for individuals affected by eating disorders. Their offerings include a helpline, support groups, mentorship programs, and a treatment directory. ANAD emphasizes community, recovery, and education through advocacy, public awareness, and tailored recovery resources. They also provide learning tools for individuals, families, and professionals.
Bulimia.com - The Bulimia Project is a resource hub focused on providing information about bulimia nervosa and other eating disorders, offering guides on symptoms, health risks, treatment options, and the mental health impacts of these conditions. It also provides supportive tools for those seeking help, including articles on therapy techniques, body image, and recovery resources.
Eating Disorders - Get Help - The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) is committed to providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families impacted by eating disorders. Their services include a confidential helpline, online chat assistance, and a directory of treatment providers to help connect people with professional care. NEDA focuses on raising public awareness, promoting early detection, and reducing the stigma surrounding eating disorders through community outreach and advocacy initiatives. They also offer specialized resources for underrepresented communities, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, ensuring that support is inclusive and accessible. By fostering a compassionate and understanding environment, NEDA empowers individuals on their path to recovery while working toward systemic changes that improve access to care. Visit their website to explore their resources and learn how to get involved.
Eating Recovery At Home - Eating Recovery Center’s virtual care program, Eating Recovery At Home, offers Intensive Outpatient Treatment (IOP) for eating disorders, including binge eating, for all ages. It provides evidence-based care comparable to in-person treatment, including individual and group therapy, meal guidance, family education, and support groups. Licensed professionals deliver personalized care through secure telehealth platforms, supporting patients transitioning from higher care levels or needing more than standard outpatient therapy. The program is covered by most major insurers and offers expert care with the flexibility of home-based treatment.
Information for Individuals - NCEED - The National Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders (NCEED) provides comprehensive resources for understanding and identifying signs of eating disorders. Based at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NCEED offers training for healthcare providers, including live and on-demand webinars, toolkits, and peer-reviewed articles. Continuing education credits are available for healthcare professionals who attend certain webinars. Individuals and families can also access tailored resources to support their understanding and management of eating disorders. They aim to enhance screening, treatment, and understanding of eating disorders through research-backed materials and professional training.
NIMH - Eating Disorders - According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), eating disorders are serious mental health conditions involving unhealthy relationships with food and body image, affecting people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Common types include anorexia nervosa (extreme food restriction), bulimia nervosa (bingeing and purging), binge-eating disorder (uncontrolled overeating), and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), where people limit their diet due to fear or dislike of certain foods. These disorders can cause severe physical and mental health issues but are treatable through medical, psychological, and nutritional support. The NIMH also conducts clinical trials to explore better ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent eating disorders, offering participants access to cutting-edge treatments. For more details, visit their website.
Renfrew Center - Virtual Support - The Renfrew Center’s Renfrew@Home program offers virtual eating disorder treatment, including Day Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and Outpatient Groups. Services include therapy, nutrition management, and psychiatric care through a secure telehealth platform. Virtual programs mirror in-person care, providing structured therapy, supported meals, and community support. Studies show similar recovery outcomes for virtual and in-person participants. Available in 30 states, this resource only requires a device with a camera and internet access. This accessibility helps overcome barriers such as geographic location and transportation issues.