Resources For Clinicians
Eating disorders are a complex mental illness,
but they are absolutely treatable.
Eating disorders are a growing public health issue, and many clinicians feel underprepared to treat them. While specialists play an important role, relying on them alone isn’t enough. Clinicians of all kinds can better support their clients by learning essential eating-disorder information. We’ve gathered resources and guidance specifically for clinicians to help you confidently support patients on their path to lasting recovery.
Can you tell if your client
has an eating disorder?
EATING DISORDER TREATMENT & RECOVERY
Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses but they are notoriously under-diagnosed. It’s important that clinicians across all disciplines understand eating disorders. Research has shown that 50% of Canadians have thoughts and feelings that put them at risk of developing an eating disorder. Alberta alone has 300,000 people struggling with an eating disorder at any given time.
You likely support individuals who are at risk or already have an eating disorder.
Eating disorders can affect people of any age, background, body size, or gender. It’s important to understand that no single “type” of person gets an eating disorder, and assumptions often prevent people from getting timely support.
Do you know who gets eating disorders?
Warning signs aren’t always obvious and can show up in many different ways: emotional, physical, and behavioural. Learning to recognize a wide range of indicators can help you notice when someone might be struggling, even if they don’t talk about it directly.
Do you know the signs eating disorders?
Language matters, and certain comments, especially about weight, eating habits, or appearance, can be harmful even if they seem well-intentioned. Knowing how to respond with sensitivity can make it easier for someone to open up rather than feel judged or dismissed.
Do you know how what to say or what NOT to say?
Learn how to be a more supportive clinician.
If someone reaches out it likely means they trust you. It’s important to listening without trying to “fix” the situation. Your reaction can make the difference between someone feeling truly supported or regretful of saying something.
Your preparedness can have a big impact.
Would you know what to do if someone asked for help?
Support doesn’t stop once treatment begins, your role as a clinician can still be meaningful, even if you aren’t the primary carer. Thoughtfully checking in can help create a safe and shame free environment for someone as they navigate healing.
Do you know how to remain supportive once they do get help?
Transform How You Support Clients with Eating Disorders
Eating Disorder Informed Care is a community-driven initiative grounded in the expertise of experienced clinicians and the voices of those with lived experience.
This professional development program provides essential, foundational knowledge to help you deliver evidence-based, inclusive, and compassionate care to individuals affected by EDs.
CLINICIAN NEWSLETTER
Stay informed about the latest in eating disorder care.
Join our clinician list.
We are building a strong network of clinicians, organizations, and researchers dedicated to improving eating disorder care. We are committed to keeping this valuable community connected. The more we collaborate, the better outcomes we can create for people struggling with eating disorders.
Video Resource Library
Our video resource library is a valuable resource for health professionals and practitioners. The following video is a conversation between Paediatrician Dr. April Elliott and Psychiatrist Dr. Monique Jericho about Eating Disorder Treatment: Communication Approaches for Physicians.
Clinician Blog
Read the latest on our Clinician Blog, full of insights and advice to support professionals treating people with eating disorders.
