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Eating Disorder Peer Support Group Guidelines

Guiding Principles: Language and Sharing in Our Group

Check in is required to create a space where

folks know who we are sharing our virtual space

with. Folks that refuse to check in will be

removed in order to protect this space.

Honor Shared Space


Please stay on mute when you are not speaking. Turn off your camera if you are eating, smoking, vaping, driving, or engaging in activities that may distract others.

 

One Person Speaks at a Time


Avoid interrupting others.  This includes chat box. Please avoid posting and engaging in side conversations while others are speaking, as it can be distracting.

Use “I” Statements


Share from your own experiences using “I” statements. Speak from your perspective without generalizing for the group or assuming others' experiences.

Mindful Sharing

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Avoid sharing graphically when discussing potentially activating topics. This is to be mindful of the shared space and to prevent unintentionally activating others. It's helpful to focus on the feelings and emotions involved rather than specific descriptions. Please refrain from promoting diet culture-related topics or applying moral judgment to food and bodies.

Neutral Food Language

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Avoid food shaming and recommendations for food restrictions. While it is okay to use terms like "safe foods" or "trigger foods". We aim to treat all foods as neutral and avoid labels like "junk food," "superfoods," or "clean eating," which imply moral judgments. These terms create food hierarchies and can be harmful. Focus on how you feel rather than labeling foods or body types. Refrain from discussing specific diets or ways of eating, as these can be activating for others.

No Numbers

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Refrain from discussing specific numbers related to weight, calories, exercise, clothing sizes, or other measurements. Sharing numerical details can potentially be activating. 

Compassionate Communication

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Refrain from using stigmatizing or harmful language, including weight stigma, anti-fat bias, healthism, ableism, and saneism. Anti-fat bias refers to negative attitudes, stereotypes, and discrimination against individuals with larger bodies. The internalization of anti-fat bias can contribute to the development of disordered eating patterns as individuals strive to conform to societal expectations. Be mindful of how your words may affect others, and stay open to feedback. If something you say unintentionally offends, be willing to listen, learn, and redirect.

No Medical Advice


Please avoid giving medical advice. When discussing medication, do not mention specific names, and kindly refrain from sharing personal experiences with weight loss drugs.

Take Space, Make Space

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Allow everyone a chance to share and contribute. If you need additional time or resources, please ask, but also ensure there is room for others to participate. Balance your needs with the needs of the group to maintain a supportive and inclusive environment.

Feedback with Consent

 

Always ask for consent before offering feedback. Respect others' choice to accept or decline it. Feedback can be kindly refused at any time. Approach feedback with sensitivity, ensuring it is constructive and supportive.

A Space for All Bodies

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Rooted in Health at Every Size principles, we are committed to fighting weight stigma and challenging bias. We strive to create an inclusive space where all bodies and experiences are honored, acknowledging various forms of discrimination, including weight bias, ableism, and intersecting issues.

Welcoming All Gender Identities and Expressions

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We are an LGBTQIA2S+ led and inclusive space. Honor and respect everyone’s pronouns and gender identities without making assumptions. This space is dedicated to supporting and affirming all gender identities and expressions.

Acknowledge Discomfort & Growth

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We do not call this a "safe space" because safety is defined differently by each person. Discomfort may arise as we navigate difficult topics together. This discomfort is part of the process of being in community and growing together. We encourage openness to being stretched and challenged while also practicing self-care and offering mutual support. Remember, it’s okay to take breaks and seek additional support if needed.

Resources

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Websites

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Podcasts

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Books

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Yoga & Meditation

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Additional Resources

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