Tips for Staying Connected and Avoiding Isolation During COVID-19
Whether we struggle with a mental health condition or not, we are all susceptible to feelings of isolation. This can trigger anxiety and unhealthy behaviors. With the recent outbreak of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, health officials are recommending that we "social distance” ourselves to help contain the spread of the virus even more.
The good news is that Eating Recovery Center and Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Centers have many resources available right now that can provide valuable connection and support. We encourage you to take advantage of these resources during this extraordinary time. Whether you’re a patient, an alum or a follower of ERC on social, we're here to provide you with valuable support—all that can be accessed from the comfort of your home.
Please take advantage of the following virtual support resources, outlined below:
Free Online Support Groups
If you’re a current patient or alum of ERC, you may already be involved in a support group at your treatment center. But what you may not know is that we also offer support online. Families, current patients, alum and even community members who’ve never received treatment at ERC can take advantage of these virtual groups. Our expert clinician team can answer questions, provide valuable resources and connect you with others in our recovery community!
Social Media Communities
Our growing social communities of over 200,000 followers offer a collaborative and inspiring experience, with a dedicated group of community members who are supportive, especially needed in times like this. During this time of social distancing, there’s no need to feel alone or isolated. Check out our social channels. You can find inspiration in the form of videos from our community members, positive quotes and resources to support your journey. Whether you enjoy Facebook, Instagram or other platforms, we are here to meet you where you are.
Join the conversation: Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Binge Eating Connection | Eating Disorders Family Connection
Say It Brave
We can’t say enough about this amazing community and the regular ongoing support and inspiration it provides. Say It Brave is a free and inclusive community for everyone. Every week you will receive an email from a different leader in the mental health community across the nation, providing stories of strength, and resilience, and most of all, authenticity. Say It Brave also provides free tools for mental wellness, from resources designed by clinical experts to webinars (check out our next one on March 26th) to weekly self-care and courage-boosting missions.
Join the Say It Brave community.
Upcoming Say It Brave Webinar
When Depression Comes Knocking – Tools for Survival and Finding Your Light Again – A Say It Brave Webinar on March 26th – 8 p.m. EST
In this free webinar, National Recovery Advocate, Shannon Kopp, and Jennifer McAdams (MA, LCPC, CEDS-S) will provide compassionate support and concrete tools for coping with depression during these stressful times. You’ll learn:
- How to recognize when depression is knocking on your door
- Tools for surviving, and ultimately, overcoming depression, no matter how dark it’s been
- Quick and easy self-compassion exercises to help you get out of bed and into the world
- Local and national resources to support your healing journey
- Register for the webinar.
Eating Recovery Center Blog
We have a rich tapestry of blog content that can serve many different needs: from education to inspiration. Until recent years, there hasn’t been much information out there about eating disorders. That’s why we started the ERC blog. Our goal is to educate our readers so they can learn about eating disorders and mental health, as well as find hope and inspiration through stories from those who’ve found recovery.
Family Support Center
The Family Support Center is an online portal for family members and caregivers of patients in eating disorder treatment. We provide encouragement through a Resource Center with tools and tips, meal management support, success stories from families just like you and more. We know how challenging it can be to see a loved one struggle with an eating disorder, so we are here to support you every step of the way!
Find resources for families and caregivers.
Mental Note Podcast
One way to fill yourself up with positivity and hope is by listening to the Mental Note podcast. Each episode features an inspiring individual who shares their story and provides informative resources that can help guide you toward recovery and mental wellness.
The medical team at ERC and Pathlight is working hard to provide ongoing updates on how we’re addressing the coronavirus in our treatment centers. Learn more about protocols, visitor policy, FAQs and tips for staying healthy on the COVID-19 resource page.
