EDQ Annual Report 2021/22

ANNUAL REPORT 2021 / 22

ABOUT EDQ

Eating Disorders Queensland is a statewide, community-based not-for-profit organisation. We support both individuals who are living with an eating disorder; and their carers, loved ones, and key support people.

Eating Disorders Queensland (EDQ) understands that individuals, families, carers and loved ones recover at their own pace. We value the important role that Medical and Psychiatric services can have in recovery from an eating disorder and offer our services as a partner as well as alternative to the medical model, depending on client need. We are an eating disorder service located in Brisbane.

EDQ is a statewide, community-based not-for-profit organisation. We support both individuals who are living with an eating disorder; their carers, loved ones, and key support people.

Support options include therapeutic and psychosocial support for individuals, and coaching and community connection for carers. EDQ also provides early intervention opportunities with community education events focused on creating healthy relationships with food and our bodies. We are passionate about eradicating weight stigma and diet culture.

OUR VALUES

Nurture

Creating an inclusive, connected community that inspires hope and passion.

Empower

Fostering a safe environment where people have the power to lead recovery.

Integrity

Working with deep respect, embracing honesty, trust and empathy.

Innovate

Creating together to provide high-quality responsive programs, services and initiatives.

Collaborate

Valuing diversity through sharing learning among people with eating disorders, carers and sector partners.

CEO & CHAIRPERSON’S COMBINED REPORT

A year of doing what EDQ does best, getting stuff done, Omicron wave or not. We had some outstanding moments that related to EDQ’s mission: To facilitate hope and recovery for all people affected by eating disorders.

Queensland Health is the primary funder of EDQ; we want to thank the Qld Government for its continuing and growing investment in EDQ and the support we provide to individuals and cares impacted by eating disorders.

The Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs Branch team are always open to discussing the growing need for eating disorder treatment services. They have proactively reviewed investment opportunities to assist us in growing our reach to better support Queenslanders.

MISSION MOMENTS

We kicked off our first post-Covid event with a robust public health message; The ‘diets are BULLSHT’ advocacy campaign for Body Image and Disorders Action week. We are passionate about eradicating weight stigma and diet culture, a leading cause of eating disorders.

We experienced a significant increase in school requests, post-COVID, to provide education sessions regarding body image, diet culture and weight-inclusive conversation topics.

This year saw the first Inquiry into Mental Health for Queensland; it was a significant moment for EDQ to have our voice heard and acknowledged, as evidenced by the Inquiries’ recommendations.

Regarding recommendation five, “Public health campaign to reduce stigmas: Developing and implementing a public health campaign to reduce the stigma associated with …and eating disorders, which also encourages help-seeking and help to offer behaviours.”

Recommendation twenty, expand community-based service and programs, tied in with the critical issues raised by EDQ in both our written submission and appearance at the Inquiry as a witness:

• Investment in the Early Onset Treatment of eating disorder

• Early intervention around Body Image, Weight Stigma, and Diet Culture in Schools

• Equity of access to treatment and recovery support through increased needs-based funding for Queenslanders impacted by eating disorders

are diets

The Federal Government election gave us a national platform to advocate for more funding by bringing awareness to:

EDQ has seen a significant increase in the number of clients engaging our therapeutic services, individual and group-based peer work and individual carer coaching between 2019/20 and 2020/21.

Notably, there was a 77% increase in the number of clients who engaged in individual counselling or therapeutic groups. Additionally, we have seen an increase in the number of hours that clients were engaged in individual peer work (+94%), and therapeutic services (+48%)

77% INCREASE

IN THE NUMBER OF CLIENTS

This messaging was done via letters sent to federal members from all the main political parties.

We solidified our messaging and “election asks” with our advocacy day at Qld Parliament, meeting and speaking face to face to Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastructure - Mrs Julieanne Gilbert; Assistant Minister for Tourism Industry Development - Mr Michael Healy; Joe Kelly State member for Greenslopes; Ali King Member for Pumicestone and Dr Christian Rowan member for Moggill, to mention a few.

The EDQ Board developed a new strategic plan to guide us through 2025. Facilitated by Mr William Brennan from Orbis Consulting, the process was dynamic, with ideas and concepts grounded in our lived experience knowledge. The Board did an excellent job in identifying the four strategic priorities:

• LEADER - in lived experience service design and delivery

• CHAMPION – equitable access and system response

• SUSTAINABLE – to promote growth, reach and service delivery

• RECOGNISED - as the leading eating disorder service organisation

GREATEST SUCCESSES

One of the key recommendations was to engage new accountants, and as a result, we contracted Consilid8, a subsidiary of BDO, to deliver our accounting and reporting functions.

We welcome the Consilid8 team, especially our management account, Jayden Chen, who always goes the extra mile to support EDQ.

We launched our much-anticipated Clinical Guidelines: For Therapeutic Interventions in Eating Disorders, co-authored by Dr Jenny Gilmore. It was great to have an in-person event for the launch at Victoria Park, with the QLD Mental Health Commission Ivan Frkovic opening the event, which was recorded and delivered through an online seminar that provided national coverage of the event.

We want to acknowledge and thank the North Brisbane and South Brisbane PHNs for funding EDQ to deliver psychosocial support; it is great to have these new funding streams to assist us in growing our pilot program bITE (Brief Intervention/Therapy for eating disorders) on the South Side and expand the existing Recovery Warriors program on the North side.

Special mentions to Mike Bosel – CEO of Brisbane South PHN, for responding to the need for additional service for clients in their catchment area, and to Paul Martin, Executive Manager, Commissioned Services Brisbane North PHN, for funding an additional FTE to provide psychological support for clients in their catchment. Their responsiveness to unmet needs and hearing the voices of EDQ and their clients testify to the client being at the centre of regional planning.

Paul Martin at the Clinical Guidelines launch - where he announced additional North Brisbane PHN funding for EDQ

GREATEST CHALLENGES

EDQ is experiencing an unprecedented need for our funded services as Queenslanders are experiencing increasing financial, emotional, and psychological challenges.

Eating disorders are presenting in growing numbers across hospitals and health services, and our waitlist for structured psychological therapies is experiencing up to year-long waiting times. We had to be agile and creative in developing new options to support those clients in other ways while they wait for one-onone therapy.

Workforce shortages for allied health practitioners have also significantly impacted service delivery via other funding streams like Medicare & NDIS, which we have traditionally relied on to fill the service gap.

1 YEAR UP TO WAITING TIMES

EDQ is constantly reviewing and analysing our service delivery approach and how to best navigate the challenges we encounter.

We want to take this opportunity to thank the Board and the EDQ team for their consistent and dedicated work to EDQ and the eating disorders community.

Belinda Chelius

Karen Dare

Chief Executive Officer Board Chair

TREASURER'S REPORT

KAROLINA PEMBERTON Treasurer

The statement of Comprehensive Income for Eating Disorders Qld Limited (EDQ) shows a loss of $4,273. This is due to increased employee expenses.

EDQ has continued its strong focus on the reduction of waiting times for clients and is continually investing money in new roles and support services in order to achieve its KPIs.

EDQ received a 1.02% funding increase on the 1st of July 2021 from Queensland Health as part of its annual indexation review.

EDQ also received the following increases to funding during the year:

• Increased funding from Q Health of $20,000 - used for increased training and supervision expenses.

• Rollover funding of $42,735 from FY21 to FY22 - to assist with the management of current waitlists for specialised services.

• PHN Funding North $75,000 - psychosocial support activities

• PHN Funding South $60,000 - support for additional peer worker and provide services through the engagement of the key personnel.

1.02% $75K

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FY22

Revenue 1,692,862 1,499,769 12.87%

Other Income 34,018 332,338

(1,301,995) (1,142,326)

(67,339)

(155,838)

(8,311)

(204,005)

OUR PEOPLE

REFLECTION ON BOARD MEMBERSHIP IN 2022

As someone with a lived experience of an eating disorder, and a past client of EDQ, I was humbled to be asked to join the Board by a past CEO in 2016. After three years on the Board, I took a break for 18 months and re-joined in 2021.

As an EDQ client in recovery, I was provided with excellent clinicians, peer support and referrals to reliable and informed allied health professionals. Involvement with EDQ was key to my recovery.

Years later, joining the Board has been an enriching experience. Having previously sat on private sector boards as an Executive and non-Executive Director, I was interested to learn and grow through an experience serving with EDQ. We are a skills-based, strategic board led very well by our experienced Chair and CEO.

“

As an EDQ client in recovery, I was provided with excellent clinicians, peer support and referrals to reliable and informed allied health professionals.”

I am passionate about our care and recovery model because it is genuine person-centred and trauma informed. The EDQ model is reviewed regularly to ensure that policy and practices embody the organisation’s mission to privilege the voices of those with lived experience. Having positions on the EDQ Board allocated to members with lived experience demonstrates the commitment to this mission. This not only makes those ‘voices’ available but also the other resources that come with the people; for instance, as a lawyer and executive in the private sector, I can support the board with legal, governance, compliance and risk matters as well as provide a consumer’s perspective.

This year I have been particularly impressed by EDQ’s strategic planning; carefully put together and very robust! I have high hopes for the future of our organisation. We’ve set great goals. The strategy is exciting; it inspires me to work hard with our broader team to achieve the highest standards for our clients and our sector.

D’JULIET - Director • Expertise: Legal

EDQ TEAM

EDQ Chief Executive Officer

Belinda Chelius

EDQ Clinical Team

Christophe Langlasse, David Langford, Lisa Kelly, Emily Stanley Pickering, Nat Scales, Poppy-Louise Batts, Amber Dwinell, Lucy Galbraith, Sarah Larsen, Kayla Lazzam.

EDQ Carer & Key Support Team

Emma Trappett, Melissa Cheras, Mary-Ann Kissane, Rohani Mitchell.

EDQ Lived Experience Support Workers

Amanda Long, Amira Hassan, Laura Zuber.

EDQ Public Health Team

Rohie Marshall, Jess Tone, Laura Oakley.

EDQ Allied Health Contractors

Jane Bowman, Megan Bray, Rosalind Quinlan, Lisa Prineas, Sarah Why.

SUZANNAH

KAREN DARE - Chairperson, Director • Expertise:

Community Sector

Karen has a social sciences background and over 35 years of experience in the community sector, working with Communify since 1994. She works with a strong community development focus and has extensive experience as a board member for prominent community and other organisations. Karen is recipient of the 2001 Centenary Medal and the Brisbane Australia Day Award for her contribution to the community sector.

STACEY HORDER - Secretary, Director • Expertise: HR

Stacey has worked across the full growth cycle of companies – from start-ups, to mergers and acquisitions, alongside managing billion-dollar ventures. Throughout her career, Stacey has consistently advocated for culture and creating organisations that have a strong sense of community. She also spends time mentoring for start-ups and being involved in a Director capacity for not-for-profits.

KAROLINA PEMBERTON - Treasurer, Director • Expertise:

Finance

Karolina is a qualified accountant with over 17 years of experience across a range of sectors and specialities, including Financial and Management accounting, Budgeting and Forecasting, and not-for-profits. Outside her professional life, Karolina has a love of family, cooking and tennis.

SUSAN GOBBART - Banking Signatory • Expertise: Psychology/Service Delivery

Susan is a psychologist with a special interest in complex trauma, co-occuring AOD and mental health concerns, and Clinical Governance, particularly program evaluation and service/client outcome measures. She is currently working in private practice focussing on clients living in rural and remote settings, with all therapy sessions delivered via Telehealth. She has over 30 years of professional experience across a range of areas in the mental health field.

REX BRAR - Ordinary Member • Expertise: Finance and Business Development

Rex is currently Head of Finance for PRA Australia, a fintech start-up subsidiary of a NASDAQ Listing company. Prior to joining PRA, Rex led FPA, Board reporting, and credit risk exposure at MDP, a local subsidiary of Mitsubishi Corporation. While at MDP, Rex participated in various M&A Deals and led an ERP transition and implementation. Prior to joining MDP, Rex worked in a mid-tier public practice firm leading audit and relationships with a wide range of clientele in mining, agriculture, and the construction industry. He earned a B.A. in accounting and is a Chartered Accountant.

ANASTASIA BLAKE - Ordinary Member (banking signatory) • Expertise: Nutrition

Anastasia worked in Education for more than 20 years, primarily in Computer Education and Policy Managing Initiatives. She has extensive experience in managing and delivering food programmes in various settings. Anastasia first began volunteering with EDQ in its very early days. She now supervises Health Science Dietetics students and is finalising a cookbook with Dr. Leanne Barron for those recovering from eating disorders.

MARC BRYANT - Ordinary Member • Expertise: Carer/IT

Marc is a current member of the Qld Government Advisory Group (Eating Disorders), and also has more than 20 years’ experience in State Government public service, including various expert panels and consulting groups, with special interest in IT systems and information management. Marc has had approximately 6 years’ lived experience with eating disorders as a carer and has mentored other carers.

STRATEGIC PLAN 2021-2024

1. LEADER in lived experience service design and delivery

• Co-design services for best practice.

• Support and strengthen lived experience leadership.

• Continuous improvement of service delivery through consultation and feedback with key stakeholders.

3. SUSTAINABLE to promote growth, reach and service delivery

• Establish formal partnerships with aligned services.

• Diversify income streams.

• Extend the reach of service delivery across Queensland.

2. CHAMPION equitable access and system response

• Advocate for investment in prevention, health promotion and early intervention.

• Influence National and State policy on accessible and equitable treatment options.

• Drive an early identification and intervention response for eating disorders, at a systemic level.

4. RECOGNISED as the leading Eating Disorder service organisation

• Increase brand awareness.

• Develop an external communication strategy.

• Represented on all International, National and State bodies.

CLIENT DEMOGRAPHICS

QH-FUNDED CONSUMERS*

*QH-Funded consumers include clients who have participated in Non-Therapeutic Groups or Structured Psychological Therapies (Individual or Group) within the Queensland Health funding stream. Clients who attended Community Development and Education events are not included as demographic data was not collected.

Age and gender

Age Female Male Other Not stated Total

Under 18 17 2 0 0 19 (2%)

18 – 24 253 13 10 1 277 (31%)

25 – 34 252 10 5 2 269 (30%)

35 – 44 107 6 2 0 115 (13%)

45 – 54 50 4 0 1 55 (6%)

55 – 64 43 0 0 0 43 (5%)

65+ 6 1 0 0 7 (1%) Not stated 98 5 0 8 111 (12%)

Total 826 (92%) 41 (5%) 17 (2%) 12 (1%) 896 (100%)

Diagnostic Impression*

OF CLIENTS WERE AGED 18-24

31% 92%

OF CLIENTS WERE FEMALE

*Clients may have more than one diagnostic impression; therefore, the number of responses may vary from the total client count.

Diagnosis Count %

Anorexia Nervosa 381 40% Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) 16 12%

Binge Eating Disorder 169 18% Bulimia Nervosa 191 20% Orthorexia 15 2% Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED) 135 14% Unspecified Feeding or Eating Disorder (UFED) 20 2% Not stated/Lost to follow-up 146 15%

In comparison to this national data, the proportion of EDQ clients presenting with a diagnostic impression of Bulimia Nervosa (20%) was slightly higher.

This is consistent with QLD prevalence data, with Brisbane North in the top three PHNs in Australia with the highest rates of Bulimia Nervosa (NEDC, 2019).

The proportion of EDQ clients presenting with Anorexia Nervosa (40%) was much higher compared to national data and lower for Binge Eating Disorder (18%).

Yes 184 21% No 419 58% Not stated 193 22% Total 896 100%

CARERS

*Clients who attended Community Development and Education events are not included as demographic data was not collected.

Age and gender

Age Female Male Other Not stated Total

Under 18 0 0 0 0 0 (0%) 18 – 24 3 2 0 0 5 (2%) 25 – 34 3 3 0 0 6 (2%) 35 – 44 20 4 0 0 24 (10%) 45 – 54 80 17 0 2 99 (41%) 55 – 64 32 9 0 2 43 (17%) 65+ 10 4 0 0 14 (6%) Not stated 29 11 0 13 53 (22%)

Total 177 (73%) 50 (20%) 0 (0%) 17 (7%) 244 (100%)

Are you of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Origin?

Yes 3 1% No 186 76% Not Stated 55 23% Total 244 100%

41%

OF CARERS WERE AGED 45-54

Do you identify as part of the LGBTQIAP+ community?

Yes 4 2% No 172 70% Not stated 68 28% Total 244 100%

SERVICES DELIVERED

COMPARISON BETWEEN 2020/21 & 2021/22 FINANCIAL YEARS.

Following a 77% increase between financial years (FY) 2019/20 and 2020/21, we saw a further 28% increase in clients engaging in Queensland Health-funded Counselling and Therapeutic Groups in FY 2021/22. The increase is clients in 2021/22 was less than the increase in 2020/21 due to EDQ reaching service capacity and having to refer clients to alternative services.

28% INCREASE IN CLIENTS

There were significant increases in the number of clients who engaged in Queensland Health-Funded NonTherapeutic Groups, Group Based Peer Work, and Group Carer Support (44% - 151% increase) as community development and education events and presentations (e.g., school presentations) were in full swing after being reduced due to the pandemic. To accommodate for this continuing increase in the number of clients accessing services at EDQ, sessions/ contacts and service hours across most individual and group services also increased in FY2021/22.

CLIENTS

*Clients who have participated in multiple services are included under each service they have participated in. 2020/21 2021/22 % Change

Queensland Health Funded Non-Therapeutic Groups 323 811 + 151% Individual Carer Coaching 246 682 + 177% Group Carer Support 95 191 + 101% Structured Psychological Therapies (Individual & Groups) 579 740 + 28% Individual Peer Work 175 209 + 19% Group-Based Peer Work 880 1271 + 44% North Brisbane PHN Funded Non-Therapeutic Groups 41 75 + 83% Individual Peer Worka N/A 10 N/A South Brisbane PHN Funded Brief Interventions/Therapyb N/A 24 N/A

TOTAL CLIENTS AND SESSIONS - QH FUNDING STREAM

This graph shows the total clients and sessions for FY21/22 in comparison to annual targets and FY20/21 for QLD Health-funded services. The number of individual Peer Work sessions under QLD Health funding in FY21/22 decreased in comparison to FY20/21 due to a proportion of Individual Peer Work services being moved to the Brisbane North PHN funding stream. Comparative graphs for PHN-funded services are not available due to limited data in FY20/21 (services only commenced in FY21/22).

SESSIONS/CONTACTS

2020/21 2021/22 % Change

Queensland Health Funded Non-Therapeutic Groups 48 54 + 13% Structured Psychological Therapies (Individual & Groups) 2589 3096 + 20% Individual Peer Work 3154 1302 - 60% Group-Based Peer Work 99 125 + 26%

North Brisbane PHN Funded Non-Therapeutic Groups 29 71 + 144% Individual Peer Worka N/A 36 N/A

South Brisbane PHN Funded Brief Interventions/Therapyb N/A 90 N/A

a For the period January 2022 – June 2022; b For the period March 2022 – June 2022

HOURS

2020/21 2021/22 % Change

Queensland Health Funded Non-Therapeutic Groups 124 176 + 42% Individual Carer Coaching 1596 884 - 45% Group Carer Support 192 310 + 62% Structured Psychological Therapies (Individual & Groups) 3578 4291 + 20% Individual Peer Work - Mentor 516 600 + 16% Individual Peer Work - Mentee 1645 1235 - 25% Group-Based Peer Work - Speakers 76 140 + 84% Group-Based Peer Work - Clients 193 236 + 23%

North Brisbane PHN Funded Non-Therapeutic Groups 97 147 + 52% Individual Peer Worka N/A 46 N/A South Brisbane PHN Funded Brief Interventions/Therapyb N/A 137 N/A a

For the period January 2022 – June 2022; b For the period March 2022 – June 2022

This graph shows the total hours for FY21/22 in comparison to annual targets and FY20/21 for QLD Healthfunded services. The number of individual Peer Work hours under QLD Health funding in FY21/22 decreased in comparison to FY20/21 due to a proportion of Individual Peer Work services being moved to the Brisbane North PHN funding stream. Comparative graphs for PHN-funded services are not available due to limited data in FY20/21 (services only commenced in FY21/22).

STRUCTURED PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPIES

EDQ has continued to provide quality therapeutic services to individuals responsively and flexibly despite the ongoing and changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, EDQ has provided services to clients responding to widespread increased demand. Accessible services include our Queensland Health funded, Medicare and NDIS counselling streams and a brief intervention for eating disorders model (bITE) funded through Brisbane South PHN.

Our one-on-one counselling services are firmly grounded in evidence-based models and techniques underpinned by a feminist practice framework. Individual therapy is client-driven, respectful and works to empower the individual to develop meaning, insight, and skills. This enables the client to manage their eating disorder and, importantly, begin addressing underlying causes. We work holistically, working closely with an individual’s treatment team.

We also collaborate with clients to grow and develop their support networks and connect them with lived experience mentors and peer workers where possible.

The team strives for continuous improvement and the delivery of high-quality services with all practitioners (from the different streams) undertaking regular clinical, peer and external supervision. Practitioners are proactive in keeping themselves updated with the latest research by attending and contributing to national and international conferences and professional development and sharing learnings through various team meetings. Since the COVID era, numerous sessions are still conducted using online telehealth platforms, which have been advantageous for many, particularly those located outside the Brisbane metro area.

“I have certainly turned a corner with self-compassion. It has taken so long but you gently kept suggesting it and it's finally sunk in.”

The things you have helped me understand and acknowledge are great and even 6 months ago I didn’t believe there was hope. I now feel I’m walking away with a much greater understanding on the eating disorder and can confidently recognise where the thoughts are coming from and have a greater ability to access that ‘healthy-self’ side. Your help has inspired me to want to help others with compassion and understanding of how difficult this journey is. It may only be the tiniest slither of belief, but I am learning to believe I am enough. I can’t thank you enough.”

“The Telehealth (counselling) service has been the ideal way for me to access support from edq. It’s convenient and safe but still extremely high quality, personalised support. I was anxious about accessing a (counselling)service for the first time, and Telehealth felt less confronting. It’s especially helpful for people like me who live in a regional area.”

10-WEEK THERAPEUTIC GROUP

We look at various topics, including feelings and needs, relationships and communication, body relationship and acceptance, mindfulness, and a critical analysis of how gender roles and cultural, family, and societal expectations might affect eating issues. This recognises our feminist underpinning, critiquing the impact of diet culture and patriarchy on the experiences of people with eating disorders. We also added an exploration of values to the group’s content, which provided an essential connection to self and hopes for the future for participants. The group explores these different topics through discussions and expressively based therapeutic activities, which serve to explore the reasons underlying our eating disorder and build our support networks, skills, and resources in our recovery journey.

The sense of community created in the groups and the story sharing by participants support people to counter the sense of shame, guilt and isolation that can come with having an eating issue. While people are nervous about sharing, support, connection, validation, and self-recognition are valued from experience.

We continue to include two Speakers from the EDQ community to come into the group towards the end to speak about their recovery experience. This is an opportunity for group participants to ask these Speakers questions about recovery, ideas and what was helpful or not helpful. During this financial year, three 10-Week Therapeutic Treatments groups were run.

Participants in all groups often reflected similar feedback of feeling heard and supported around story sharing. During these weeks, participants reflect on the bravery, strength and resilience felt by the person’s story.

One participant who attended an online group shared with her EDQ practitioner that she has the letters received by fellow group participants (from the appreciation letter activity) stuck on her fridge at home to remind her of the connection and support she experienced.

During the final week of the group, participants are invited to reflect on their key takeaways and experiences. Participants within this week have reflected on themes such as hope for recovery, trust, community and building a sense of community.

Delivering the 10-week group both online and face-to-face with masks provided an opportunity for greater reach to state-wide clients and continued safety for clients in person. EDQ responded and adapted quickly to changing COVID-19 restrictions while delivering a safe and consistent service to clients throughout this financial year.

COMMUNITY TABLE

The Community Table (CT) aims to support people recovering from eating disorders. The program was developed in response to a service gap identified by members of the ED community regarding communitybased meal support programs. CT was designed to bridge that gap by providing a structured and supported group program to allow individuals to work towards nutritional goals, engage in social eating and develop skills to manage meal-related anxiety and distress.

CT consists of three-hour group sessions run over five consecutive weeks. The program is underpinned by Carolyn Costin’s ‘Soul Food’ principles of connection, pleasure, creativity, and miraculous wonder. These principles foster a supportive meal environment and help our clients feel connected and safe. Alongside specific meal support, the program offers opportunities for clients to develop new strategies for managing meal-related and other distress. This is achieved through sensory and mindfulness-based activities, including crafts, gardening, interactive games, and cooking.

Eating Disorder Practitioners Lucy Galbraith, Amber Dwinell, Nat Scales, and Sarah Larsen co-facilitated the program across the year in partnership with Queensland Eating Disorder Service (QuEDS). Peer worker Laura also helps to facilitate.

Participants also reflected on their experience of the group activities to be helpful. Notably, one client shared that the cooking activity in week 4 was the first time they had prepped and cooked a meal in many years. Many clients also reflected that they appreciated the opportunity to slow down and participate in mindfulness-based activities.

Left: Participants setting the table with the collaged placements they created to highlight their motivation and goals for recovery

In March 2022, the program was facilitated for the first time offsite at our nearby community hall in Musgrave Park. We decided that running the program offsite, in a larger indoor/outdoor space, meant participants and staff could safely meet physical distance requirements without needing to wear a mask. After the first program, participants enjoyed being outside to share a meal, contributing to a calmer and more relaxed feel. Participants shared that this non-clinical environment helped to create a sense of safety and a stronger community connection. Positive feedback from participants led us to continue running the group at the new location for the remainder of the year. Running this group offsite was a massive achievement for EDQ staffgiven the enormity of the task to ensure that the new space could functionally hold this group and that it would also feel like an EDQ space.

Participants decorate a small pot plant and plant seeds to connect with soul food principle of ‘miraculous wonder’ to see something grow from a seed to then be able to nourish our body

Participants develop their own ‘tool kits’ of ways they can manage their emotions during and after mealtimes.

Brainstorming distraction methods that can be used to help manage emotions

PEER SUPPORT WORK

The Peer Support Worker role provides individual support to clients, utilising expertise gained through lived experience. This role works alongside other therapies and offers a safe, compassionate space to connect with a peer who understands the struggle in overcoming an eating disorder. Importantly, peer support workers assist clients in normalising the experience of having an eating disorder and give hope that recovery is possible, which can significantly contribute to overall recovery goals.

Through a strengths-based, trauma-considered, and humanistic approach, our Peer Support Workers share their personal lived experiences, answer questions, support clients in reaching goals, and offer practical suggestions while enabling them to make a strong connection with those who have gone through a similar experience.

Clients are offered five sessions of peer support work, either face-to-face or via telehealth. In the last financial year, 2021-22, our peer team have grown in response to increasing client interest. This year has also seen the development of an Eating Disorder Peer Support Worker Practice Framework, co-designed by peer workers and practitioners with lived experience.

“These sessions were helpful because I was struggling to work on my eating issues alone and these sessions provided the safety to slowly explore ways of healing.”

The support and understanding I received from my peer support worker has probably been one of the biggest influences in my recovery, especially pushing through that quasi-recovery stage, as I learnt that I am not alone in my thoughts and that it is possible to get through them and recover. I have learnt so much about myself and feel like I have role models that I can now look up to and have shown me that recovery, not only from an eating disorder but other mental health challenges as well, is possible. Life outside of my mind exists and it can be wonderful.

“The concept of having a peer support worker with lived experience is so incredible and has really helped me be open with them. I know that they have had similar thoughts and experiences and they have helped guide me through them and explained how they may have challenged them through their recovery.”

MEDICARE AND NDIS

Our service’s Medicare and NDIS streams are popular options for individual counselling clients. Clients with a Mental Health Care Plan, Eating Disorder Care Plan (introduced November 2019), and Enhanced Primary Care Plan can access Medicare-subsidised individual counselling or dietetic sessions.

Clients with NDIS funding for Capacity Building – Choice and Control or Daily Living can access Recovery Coaching, Therapeutic, or Dietetic Sessions.

In 2019, the Australian Government made significant enhancements to Medicare to deliver evidence-based treatment for eating disorders in the community. This was the first time specific item codes covered mental illness. Many clients access Medicare services at EDQ through an Eating Disorder Plan (EDP), which provides 40 sessions of therapeutic interventions and 20 dietetic sessions. In comparison to national reports, where only 6.5% of clients with an EDP reached the 20th session (Maguire et al., 2022), our observations indicate that Medicare clients at EDQ usually continue on with longer-term therapeutic support (>20 sessions). However, the 20th session psychiatrist review (EDP requirement) remains a barrier for many clients due to a lack of available psychiatrists specialising in eating disorders, wait times, and out-of-pocket costs.

The lost to follow-up rate in our Medicare and NDIS streams is low. Contracted Mental Health Social worker Jane builds a strong therapeutic relationship with her clients to collaboratively decide on the next steps for them. She can offer flexibility with out-of-pocket costs and support if there are barriers to accessing rebates or plans (e.g., psychiatrist review). Many clients transition from an EDP to a mental health care plan to continue accessing therapeutic support. We plan to formally evaluate client trend data for the Medicare and NDIS streams in 2023.

Megan and Jane reached capacity during the 21/22 financial year and have not been taking on new clients. Sarah is available four days a week and has not yet needed to close her books to new clients. EDQ has been advertising for a new Medicare practitioner (therapeutic) but has found a current sector-wide shortage of available practitioners.

HOSPITAL AND HEALTH SERVICE REFERRALS

Following the establishment of the COVID-19 stream in 2020, EDQ has continued to provide support and services to clients being referred by Hospital and Health Services (HHS) and Queensland Eating Disorder Service (QuEDS). This program has since been expanded to include North Queensland Eating Disorder Service. This referral pathway provides fast-tracked support to those individuals living with an eating disorder who are acutely impacted, lacking support, and at increased risk of hospitalisation; and was set up at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that eating disorder clients were not reliant on the hospitalisation system which was under unprecedented demand at that time. Senior Practitioner Christophe and Care Navigator Rohie receive these referrals, assess suitability, and then allocate them to the EDQ clinical team to assist with fast-tracked intakes and individual services.

Sarah Megan Jane

PEER SUPPORT GROUP

The Peer Support Group is now an established group as part of EDQ’s line-up of support options. The group began in January 2020 in response to the scarcity of existing opportunities for clients to connect with other people who have a shared experience of the recovery process.

Peer Support Group is made up entirely of people with a lived experience of an eating disorder. People in the group have a range of eating disorders, from the beginning stages of seeking support for their eating disorder to long-term recovery. The group also features a lived experience EDQ worker and Speaker/Mentor every session.

Clients can choose to attend on a fortnightly basis, so there is no obligation to attend each session. The purpose of the group is to foster and support recovery and offer an opportunity to connect with others who are also in recovery. We have created this group based on feedback from our existing clients that it would be nice to have a place to connect with peers that provides a bit of a break from therapy but is still a supportive and safe environment. The group offers a support option for those on a waitlist for individual counselling or other services, ensuring that motivation for recovery is not lost while waiting for individual treatment.

Since the group’s formation, we have run the group 3 times a month (twice online and once in person) to allow for flexibility and accessibility for clients. The group is a meeting of new and regular faces, with regular discussions including group members offering support, relating to challenges and successes in recovery and sharing experiences.

Peer Support Group is a wonderful casual and supportive space to meet and chat with other people in all different stages of recovery. Because it is facilitated by peer workers and lived experience speakers, it always feels like an instantly validating and supportive space to me. It's a space where we can ask questions, share resources, and offer advice to others. It's held both in person and online so even if you can't make it to West End, it's still possible to engage with the group and get support.

“I started attending Peer Support Group when it first started down at Toowong. I loved the non-clinical but supportive environment and being able to meet new people each week and hear about their wins and struggles while navigating recovery. I was particularly thankful for the closeknit group online throughout the covid isolation periods and the craft activities we did together some weeks but most importantly, having a space to be heard! Peer support Group reminded me that I wasn’t alone in the fight for recovery. I found it so inspiring to hear from recovered speakers and facilitators each week as it reminded me that recovery is possible no matter how dark and messy it seems at times.”

SPEAKER PROGRAM

EDQ has always had a rich tradition of valuing people with lived experience. This approach has since been recognised globally as a key element of best practice for a holistic approach to mental health.

The EDQ Speaker Program began in 2016 in response to requests from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, seeking more significant support for those transitioning from the hospital into the community. The Speaker Program sits alongside the Peer Mentor Program, which offers a longer-term one-on-one opportunity for connection.

The goals of the Speaker role include:

• Increase hope in the possibility of recovery

• Increase understanding that there are many pathways to recovery

• Explore strategies for recovery

• Increase community connection.

Speakers spoke across multiple community events, including inpatient training days, mental health forums, EDQ groups and co-facilitating Peer Support Groups.

There is a power in hearing someone in recovery speak about their journey that is unlike any other treatment available.

SPEAKER PROFILE

Lisa Jones

Lisa Jones (she/her) is a Lived Experience Speaker and Senior Peer Mentor at EDQ. Lisa lives and works in Meanjin on Turrbal and Yuggera land. Her roles in mental health and disability sectors allow her to help others realise their own potential. In her spare time, she loves to kiki with the local ballroom community and volunteer at animal shelters.

Why did you first join the speaker program at EDQ?

I wanted to inspire hope in people with eating disorders, showing them that recovery is possible and worthwhile. Knowing first-hand how traumatic and devastating eating disorders can be, I wanted to share any insights from my own experience that could help someone else in their recovery journey. What do you wish someone had told you about the recovery process? That it isn’t straightforward and to expect ups and downs along the way. I also wish I had more peer support during recovery, which is one of the reasons I’m so glad to be a part of the EDQ Speaker Program and Peer Mentor Program.

What have you learnt about yourself in recovery?

I learnt that my health is more important than anything else; that my shape and size are the least interesting things about me; and that people love me for who I am, not what I look like. Recovery improved my relationship with food and my body, but also led to a much deeper understanding of myself and helped me to overcome a lot of anxiety and fears.

Do you feel ‘body positive’ all the time? What about ‘body neutral’ or ‘body accepting’?

I aim for body acceptance as I no longer feel the need to ‘love’ my physical appearance (or care if others love it!). No matter what my body looks like it will always be deserving of nourishment, respect, and appreciation. I try to focus more on how my body functions and the amazing things it allows me to do. Looking fabulous is nice but feeling fabulous is my real goal!

What have you found influences your body image and how do you manage that? The more I build a full life filled with supportive people, meaningful work, and memorable experiences, the less I worry about my shape and size. If I start to focus too much on my physical appearance, that’s when the negative body image can creep in. I used to hide away when I experienced low body image, but now I know the power of connection and try to surround myself with people who embrace me and bring out my best qualities.

PEER MENTOR PROGRAM

The EDQ Peer Mentor Program (PMP) takes place twice per calendar year and aims to support people recovering from eating disorders. In each program, a selection of mentors provide support to a range of mentees over a period of four to six months.

Mentees and mentors commit to regular contact throughout the program, per the agreement developed at the beginning of the program. Mentors undergo comprehensive training delivered by our PMP coordinators and participate in regular one-onone supervision to discuss their mentorship and boundaries, ensuring their safety is maintained throughout the program. The design and structure of the Peer Mentor Program are based on best practice national and international standards from other mentoring programs. Eating Disorders Practitioner David coordinated both program rounds during the 2021/22 financial year. Due to additional funding through the Brisbane North PHN, Peer Support Worker Amira joined the program as a co-facilitator in the second program.

Due to the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, PMP groups were delivered via a telehealth platform. The use of telehealth platforms extended the program’s reach, enabling mentees and mentors from outside of the Brisbane Metro area to participate in the program.

I found it very helpful to have someone that I could talk openly with about not only my eating disorder but other mental health issues as well. I feel the structure of the program is well-designed and allows a real-life approach to connection.

"The program was a motivator to remain strong in my own recovery and be a good role model to my mentee. It encourages continuous improvement in other areas of life that makes me a better person overall."

I gained much more from the program than I expected. By the end, I was able to share my story with many people I know, not with shame but with a type of pride due to having owned and accepted my past, and pride for what I’ve overcome. My mentor had overcome so much and was so much more open with people she knows so that inspired me to do the same. I ended up eating so naturally and spontaneously by the end and enjoying being me on a level I haven’t enjoyed since early childhood, my recovery went to a new level since beginning the program.

Talking with a person who has recovered to mentor me is life-changing. I have developed a stronger sense of my own worth. I know I am recovering. I have learned some mentoring skills from observing my mentor in her role and I am very committed to being a mentor myself for someone with an eating issue when the time is right.

PMP facilitators Amira and David

PROGRAM EVALUATION FY21/22

Previous program evaluations of our PMP have shown positive outcomes for mentees (see Annual Report FY20/21).

In FY21/22 we additionally examined outcomes for 41 mentors who participated across six PMPs between 2019 – 2021. Outcomes included the EDE-Q, RAS-DS, and Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21).

As expected, mentors’ EDE-Q scores were below community norms, and DASS-21 scores were within the ‘normal’ range of DASS clinical cut-offs prior to the PMP.

Over the course of the program, mentors’ EDE-Q, DASS-21, and RAS-DS scores remained stable, suggesting no relapse of eating disorder signs and symptoms and stable mental health recovery for mentors who participated in PMP. These results indicate that participation in PMP is safe and supportive for mentors with a lived experience of an eating disorder.

Results indicate that participation in PMP is safe and supportive for mentors with a lived experience of an eating disorder.

PMP Meet and Greet 2021

TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA

The six-week Yoga program at Eating Disorders Queensland commenced in 2019, recognising and valuing our holistic way of working with people. Yoga originates in India, and the practice comes from a long line of teachers, students, and practice, and we pay our respect to the origins of this practice.

Yoga has been recognised as a supportive practice alongside traditional forms of therapy in eating disorder recovery. In this program, through the practice of yoga, a person can start to regain a sense of connection to their body that may have been lost due to their eating disorder. Sessions allow people to focus on turning their attention to their inner experience of the practice, thus building skills of being present, interception, emotional regulation, and moving towards body acceptance.

The main intentions of Yoga are to create a space of agency and choice where the person can connect to and notice sensations in their body. They can interact with what they feel in various self-directed compassionate ways. The practices explore different forms, breathing, meditation, mantra, and relaxation. Sessions are informed by trauma-informed practice and the philosophical principles and understandings of Yoga, such as Ahimsa (non-harming), which support a shift to a more self-compassionate approach to self.

Classes have a patient and thoughtful sequence that helps you feel confident and move safely through poses and thought to process. I would recommend (the program) to any person wanting to learn more about yoga and especially about themselves!

"I’m loving yoga so far! Really enjoying it and the lovely people in the group. Just wish it was a longer program! Thank you so much for the beautiful yoga sessions!"

"Yoga at EDQ offers teachings about what it means to be human and compassionate today, to be human and compassionate to each other and together. When I leave, I feel as if my body and mind is functioning at its absolute best."

PLUG-IN

Plug-In Connection Group allows participants to ‘Plug-In’ to EDQ by connecting with peers while they donate their time, skills, and energy to EDQ. Participants have ranged in terms of where they are in their recovery journey (some currently in treatment and those who have finished their treatment), contributing to such a safe and welcoming environment.

Since Dec 2021, the Plug-In group has focused on a song writing project representing people’s engagement and experience with EDQ. Since this time, the group sessions (monthly) have collaboratively explored these experiences from varying perspectives (clients, carers, mentors, workers) and safely converted these experiences into song lyrics accompanied by instrumentation provided by those with some musical experience. The song writing phase of this Plug-In project hasn’t required anyone to have any musical background/knowledge. Instead, a willingness to share and be vulnerable so that a genuinely collaborative and authentic process can occur.

creatively

Plug-In is a really fun group! It's an opportunity to give back to EDQ, but really it's just as valuable for me. Currently we're writing a song about EDQ. Even if you've never written a song before, or don't know any music there is something special you can contribute to this project.

other

"I genuinely really like this group and it's exciting to be a part of something different at EDQ"

"I've never felt so free to

collaborate with

people. The song writing process feels so natural and often the lyrics just emerge from honest and open discussion about recovery experiences."

Pictured: Plug-In participants collaborating on a song writing project

WISE CHOICES

Wise choices is an 11-week Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based program that supports people who experience eating disorders or body image concerns in learning strategies to manage difficult thoughts and feelings. It is a manualised psycho-education skills group funded through Communify. The Wise Choices program at EDQ consists of Introduction to Wise Choices and Wise Choices in Relationships. Both have proved to be popular groups within EDQ with concepts and skills relevant to Eating Disorder Recovery. Identifying and connecting with values and trying to live in ways more aligned with those values is particularly interesting to many group members. These values can often contrast with the values that an eating disorder creates or possesses. Learning and practising skills during the week and coming back and talking about this have also been valuable parts of this group.

Within the introduction to Wise Choices, some of the topics explored consist of:

• The cost of struggling to avoid difficult thoughts and feelings

• Introduction to Acceptance and Mindfulness skills

• Awareness of values and taking values-based action

• Awareness of Choice Points

• Addressing obstacles to taking values-based action

In looking at Wise choices in Relationships:

• Relationship values

• Obstacles to acting in line with values in relationships

• Use of acceptance and mindfulness skills to address internal obstacles that arise within relationships

The program has made me a braver person and closer to understanding myself. I appreciate the way it eased me into things over the last few months, never pushing too far, too fast. I'll always be grateful for the ideas, skills and activities shared within our group.

"I would say that I got a lot out of the group and I loved to participate in it! It was invaluable in many aspects and I would repeat it if I could."

"I am really going to miss the support of this group. Thank you, thank you, thank you."

WISE CHOICE EVALUATION

We have evaluated client outcomes on the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q) and Recovery Assessment Scale – Domains and Stages (RAS-DS) for three Wise Choices programs run in 2020 and 2021. Due to some missing data, the sample size varies between outcome analyses. For this sample (n = 17), there were improvements on the ‘Doing Things I Value’ and ‘Mastering My Illness’ subscales of the RAS-DS and the RAS-DS total score from preprogram to post-program, providing preliminary evidence that Wise Choices has a positive impact on participants’ recovery.

FY21/22

Preliminary evidence shows that Wise Choices has a positive impact on participants' recovery.

We did not observe changes on the EDE-Q, however, the small sample size of participants with outcomes on the EDE-Q (n =14) may have impacted our statistical power (i.e., ability to pick up a statistically significant change if there is one there). We will continue to assess these outcomes as our sample size grows.

RECOVERY WARRIORS

EDQ workers deliver a different theme to each group related to eating disorder recovery. In the financial year, the following topics were delivered:

• Incorporating mindfulness skills into our day to day

• Strengthening relationships with self-compassion

• Using values and creativity to connect with inner strength

• Responding to societal appearance standards to improve body image

• Exploring how values can guide our actions

• Bringing compassion into recovery

• Awareness of and learning to accept thoughts

• Connecting to self during holidays: exploring the practice of Chair Yoga

In

Our Recovery Warriors program is a psycho-education skills-based group funded by Brisbane North PHN. This group ran monthly throughout the 2021-2022 financial year. The program intends to provide extra support for people who may be on the waitlist for counselling or other less frequent group programs. Recovery Warriors alternates between running in-person and online so participants throughout Queensland can connect. Interest in the program has steadily increased over the financial year. The group continues to attract new participants each month, as well as participants who attend the group regularly. Watch this space for

innovations coming in this stream in the 22/23 financial year.

BRIEF INTERVENTION/THERAPY FOR EATING DISORDERS (bITE) – PILOT PROGRAM

In the second half of the year, we launched a new pilot program with South Brisbane PHN called Brief Intervention/Therapy for Eating Disorders (bITE).

The aim of this program is to offer clients individual support while they are on the waitlist for longer-term QLD Health, Medicare or NDIS-funded therapeutic interventions/counselling. Clients can access up to six bITE sessions with an EDQ practitioner. Each session is underpinned by the Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (FACT) model and aims to provide clients with relevant practical skills and tools that they apply throughout their recovery. Upon completion of the bITE program, clients still have the option to access longer-term therapeutic support.

The most helpful part for me was having someone to talk to whom I felt safe and comfortable with. My practitioner was so kind and came up with such helpful strategies that resulted in me being able to try my fear food.”

Funded by

December 2021, Lucy (L) and Nat (R) delivered the group ‘Connecting to self during holidays: exploring the practice of Chair Yoga’

CLINICAL GUIDELINES LAUNCH

14 OCTOBER 2021

As part of Mental Health Week 2021, EDQ held an event at Victoria Park to showcase several research and service outcomes alongside two large projects – EDQ’s ‘Clinical Guidelines for Therapeutic Interventions in Eating Disorders’ and ‘Understanding Eating Disorders’.

Ivan Frkovic, Queensland Mental Health Commissioner, presented an overview of eating disorders in Qld; Dr Warren Ward spoke about QuEDS’ ongoing partnership with EDQ; and Paul Martin, Executive Manager Commission Services, Brisbane North PHN, introduced the upcoming Care Pathways Project. Several EDQ practitioners presented on research and service outcomes, including Community Table, Carer Peer Mentor Program, Therapeutic Group, and individual counselling and we ended the day with a Peer Support Panel.

We were proud to officially launch “Clinical Guidelines for Therapeutic Interventions in Eating Disorders” during this event. As the largest not-for-profit community-based Eating Disorder service in Queensland, Eating Disorders Qld occupies a unique place within the broader eating disorder service system. The eating disorder treatment system is predominantly based on a medical approach, and being a non-medical, community-based service, EDQ has developed an integrated care model that seamlessly fits into a Stepped Care model of treatment.

The EDQ Practice Framework, developed by Dr Jenny Gilmore in conjunction with EDQ staff members, underpins the Clinical Guidelines for Therapeutic Interventions in Eating Disorders. Based on a wealth of clinical experience alongside research and evidence, the Guidelines outline 11 critical areas of practice, each supported by several key statements that detail how practitioners and services might work alongside clients and their key supports to achieve self-directed recovery from an eating disorder. The Guideline is intended for all health professionals, and we encourage health professionals across varied disciplines and settings of practice to read and utilise the guideline. You can download a copy (donation requested).

We acknowledge Qld Health for funding this project, Lisa Kelly for providing artwork, and dtb! Advertising for the design and formatting of the final document.

At the same event, we also launched the updated version of our popular ‘Understanding Eating Disorders’ resource. This booklet has been developed as an entry-level guide to eating disorders and their treatment. It is beneficial as a guide to carers, family members, or those newly diagnosed with an eating disorder.

You can find a digital version of the ‘Understanding Eating Disorders’ resource on our website.

CARERS/KEY SUPPORTS

INDIVIDUAL COACHING

Throughout 2021 and 2022, Eating Disorders Queensland continued to provide coaching services to families, carers, and key support people.

Over the last 12 months, the carer and family team have worked on continuing to deliver our services throughout Queensland through in-person and telehealth platforms. The team have continued to promote our coaching services on social media, in EDQ’s newsletter, and in the Carer Help Kit. The carer and family team have also maintained relationships with service providers, including Carers Queensland, Arafmi, Communify, CYMHS Greenslopes, QuEDS, NQuEDS, and Wandi Nerida, to promote our coaching support services. Further, the team has completed an evaluation of feedback and outcomes of carer services through the data collection measure developed in the previous financial year. Our coaching service aims to collaboratively identify the key issues/challenges the carer/key support person are experiencing in supporting their loved one through their eating disorder recovery. Sessions focus on practical skills, strategies, and action plans to help carers/key support people to support their loved ones.

In addition to coaching services, we have encouraged carers to link into other services, including Carer Connect, Fostering Recovery and the Carer Peer Mentor Program.

The most helpful thing about EDQ services was having an EDQ coach to help me in everyday situations, giving helpful advice and strategies for our daughter’s journey of recovery."

"It's so helpful to have the opportunity to talk to someone about my own experience. I am in so many appointments with my daughter; this time is for me and the help I need."

"The best part was that I could access this support and information online. The consistent care, communication and compassion from my coach is a true highlight. I have also found the suggested reading very helpful”.

PROGRAM EVALUATION

FY21/22

We evaluated outcomes for 44 carers who had participated in at least one carer coaching session between 2019 – 2021. The outcomes included the DASS-21, carer burnout, carer isolation, confidence to provide care of loved one, and confidence to engage in self-care practices. Carer coaching was found to improve carers’ confidence to provide care for their loved one, including increased knowledge of eating disorders and the available resources and feelings of coping as a carer.

Carers who participated in more sessions had greater reductions in anxiety.

CARER CONNECT GROUP

The Group is facilitated by EDQ Carer & Family Coaches and focuses on a different theme/topic related to eating disorder recovery each month.

What did

This financial year there were 11 Carer Connect Support Groups, with themes including:

• The importance of carer self-care

• Eating disorder traits as strengths in recovery

• Understanding change and the stages of recovery

• Understanding eating disorders: why and how they develop

• Supporting your loved one during the holiday season

• Understanding caring styles

• The 10 phases of eating disorder recovery

The group discussions, learning new information about eating disorders.”

like most about the group?

The Group provides an opportunity to learn information and skills, as well as the sharing of experiences and insights between carers. Throughout 2021-22 Carer Connect has run bi-monthly in-person at EDQ and bi-monthly online via ZOOM. Offering alternate delivery modes meets the needs of carers who prefer to attend in-person groups and carers, particularly those living outside of Brisbane, who can only attend online. The Carer Connect Group is a psycho-educational group that provides a supportive and collaborative environment for carers and key support people to connect.

Connecting with others who are supporting a loved one and hearing their experience.”

PEER MENTOR PROGRAM

Asking and getting answers to hard questions, sharing with people in similar situations.”

The EDQ Carer Peer Mentor Program (CPMP) runs twice per calendar year. The program aims to connect Queensland carers currently supporting a loved one with carers who have previously supported a loved one through recovery.

Six mentors volunteered their time for the program this past financial year, of which four had mentored previously. All mentors completed comprehensive training before the program and attended ongoing one-on-one supervision with EDQ facilitators throughout the program.

Throughout each round of the program, mentors and mentees attend three events to foster connection and peer support, including a meet and greet, midpoint and final celebration. The meet and greet allows for mentees and mentors to connect for the first time and establish hopes and expectations for the program. The midpoint meeting allows for a review of the program's first half, and the final celebration is a review of the whole program and the formal ending of the mentor-mentee matches. Mentoring pairs are expected to connect for up to two hours per fortnight, with face-to-face, phone or telehealth contact options.

you

Six mentees connected in for mentoring and were also supported by program facilitators in one-on-one coaching sessions during the program.

FOSTERING RECOVERY

Our long-running Fostering Recovery Skills-Based Workshop is open to family members and carers across Queensland.

The workshop is based on Professor Janet Treasure's evidence-informed work, which focuses on a collaborative approach to supporting a loved one.

The workshop aims to:

• Support family members/ carers/ key supports in deepening their understanding of eating disorders

• Collaborative ways to support loved ones with recovery

• Understanding carer’s /key supports emotional and behavioural responses

• Understanding stages of recovery

• Communication and meal support strategies

EMOTION FOCUSED SKILLS TRAINING

EDQ

The workshop aims to help carers:

• Navigate emotions, learn to support loved ones through difficult emotions, decrease resistance to support, and improve loved ones’ ability to cope with strong emotions.

• Focus on key change processes and tap into loved one’s natural motivations for recovery.

• Learn skills for communicating, negotiating, setting boundaries, expectations, and values, and learning skills to manage any conflict that may be getting in the way of a loved one accepting carer support.

partnered with CYMHS Eating Disorders Program and Queensland Eating Disorder Service (QuEDS) to deliver ‘Emotion Focused Skills Training’ for carers/key supports supporting a loved one with an eating disorder. The workshop was run online via Microsoft Teams over two days and co-facilitated by 3 CYMHS Eating Disorder Practitioners and an EDQ Carer & Family Coach.

Mary-Ann delivering the Fostering Recovery Workshop in December

Rohani delivering the Fostering Recovery Workshop in November

2021 BIEDAW POP-UP EVENT

BODY IMAGE AND EATING DISORDER AWARENESS WEEK (BIEDAW)

EDQ aims to change the dominant discourse that our bodies define our worth as humans and that dieting is a normal part of life. Mission Australia’s 2019 youth survey showed that 27.9% of respondents (aged 15-19 years) are concerned with body image, and 31.2% of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander respondents struggled with body image concerns. In 2021 we focussed our messaging on reaching younger people, using the eye-catching ‘Diets are bullsh*t’ slogan. Campaign branding was designed with a young people focused style, and we ran an informative social media campaign that busted myths about diets.

EDQ recognises that while we do not always love our bodies, we can aim to appreciate how our bodies perform and sustain us daily. Tanya Kretschmann, a lived experience speaker with EDQ, reframes positive body image to “A state of body neutrality when we don’t always ‘love our body’, but we aim to respect what our bodies give and do for us deeply.”

On Wednesday, 8th September, EDQ staff spent the afternoon engaging with school-aged students to talk about body image and diet culture, reduce the impact that diet culture has in their lives, and celebrate all bodies as good bodies. We were joined by Amy MacMahon, MP for South Brisbane, who came to show her support for EDQ and our message. EDQ was invited to speak on the Mornings show on ABC Radio as part of BIEDAW, speaking with Rebecca Levingston about eating disorders and body image. Belinda and Laura shared their perspective and valuable insights into living with and treating eating disorders.

BRISBANE MENTAL HEALTH EXPO

15 OCTOBER 2021

EDQ attended the Brisbane Mental Health Expo at the Powerhouse, where we were able to share information and resources about EDQ and eating disorders within the community. It was a fun, informative day with many stalls promoting mental health programs, services, and organisations.

SERVICE DELIVERY PRESENTATION IN EMERALD

19 OCTOBER 2021

Rohie was invited to present at an Eating Disorders Workshop in Emerald by Central Queensland Rural Health.

At this workshop, Rohie presented to several GPs, clinicians, and allied health teams from Central Highlands, sharing information on EDQ’s treatment approach and how we can support state-wide clients.

Dr Warren Ward from Queensland Eating Disorder Service also presented training on clinical care at this event.

The Training was open to all health professionals in the central highlands - the clinicians that attended now have improved knowledge and confidence about treating patients with eating disorders.

Providing this training has assisted in the development of improved health outcomes for the patients of Central Highlands.

Paul (Brisbane North PHN), Belinda, and Naomi (Brisbane North PHN) following the announcement of additional funding for a dedicated psychosocial worker at EDQ

Student Jess at the Brisbane Mental Health Expo

LAUNCH OF NEW EDQ WEBSITE

DECEMBER 2021

In December 2021, we launched a new website designed to make it easy for individuals, carers, key supports, and health professionals to access the information they need about our services and resources.

LAUNCH OF VODCAST EPISODE 5

HOLIDAY SEASON PREPARATIONS

In this Vodcast episode, we invited two guests - Leslee, currently caring for a daughter in recovery, and Laura, who has recovered from an eating disorder. Leslee and Laura joined Belinda for a conversation about Holiday Season Preparation, answering questions posed by our Instagram followers.

SCHOOL PRESENTATIONS

We’ve had the opportunity to visit approximately ten different schools this year, presenting a ‘Body Acceptance’ Workshop with excellent student feedback. Our team can speak with students about body image, provide education about eating disorders and what they are, and facilitate discussions with young people about the harmful nature of diet culture.

“The way you look isn’t the most important thing about your body.”

“Talk to yourself like you are talking to someone you love.” “I shouldn’t be so hard on myself.”

VIEW WEBSITE

RESEARCH AND CONFERENCES

EDQ was busy with research this year, publishing an article in the Journal of Eating Disorders and presenting at four conferences and forums.

A research team made up of EDQ’s Research Officer Jess and CEO Belinda, and Associate Professor Yvette Miller from QUT published a paper titled ‘The Effectiveness of a Feminist-Informed Individualised Counselling Intervention for the Treatment of Eating Disorders: A Case Series Study’ in the Journal of Eating Disorders.

The article was based on de-identified data collected from clients participating in individual counselling at EDQ between 2018 and 2021. The study results found that the feminist-informed and individualised treatment approach that EDQ uses is beneficial for reducing eating disorder symptomology and improving various features of mental health recovery.

READ FULL ARTICLE

This is the first time EDQ’s specific approach to individual therapy has been formally analysed and evaluated, thanks to EDQ’s ongoing partnership with QUT.

ANZAED 2021

The 19th Annual ANZAED Conference - From Ripples to Rivers: How Far We've Come was held from 19-21 August 2021.

EDQ was a Silver Sponsor of the event and delivered three presentations:

• Senior Carer Coach Melissa presented on EDQ’s Carer Peer Mentor Program (CPMP);

• Research Officer Jess presented on Therapeutic Interventions for Eating Disorders as an Alternative to the Medical Model; and

• Eating Disorder Practitioners Lucy and Amber presented a workshop on Eating Disorder Recovery Through Connected Eating – The Community Table

ANZAED AUTUMN WORKSHOP SERIES 2022

EDQ was also a Silver Sponsor for the 2022 ANZAED Autumn Workshop Series.

We have been working closely with our team members with lived experience to codesign the Peer Work role at EDQ, as well as re-examining our existing Peer programs and finally creating an EDQ-specific Peer Framework. This has been an ongoing project, beginning in late 2021, that is heavily informed by both Queensland and national frameworks on best practice.

EDQ staff Rohie, Lisa, and Laura presented a workshop on Lived Experience Work in Practice, where they discussed the co-design process that went into developing a new role. This workshop also included a panel discussion with EDQ’s CEO Belinda, Eating Disorder Practitioner Lucy, Allied Health Contract Dietitian Megan and EDQ Board Member Marc.

QuEDS ANNUAL FORUM 2022

Eating Disorder Practitioner David presented on Eating Disorders, Gender and Sexuality –Implications for Practice at the Queensland Eating Disorder Service (QuEDS) Annual Forum 2022. Lived experience speakers Nadia and Michael shared their stories as part of the presentation. EDQ’s CEO Belinda also provided forum attendees with an EDQ service update.

ICED 2022

This year’s International Conference on Eating Disorders (ICED) theme was Embracing Change and Extending Reach in a Transformed World.

The conference was held virtually on 9-10th June 2022. EDQ staff Jess and David presented ‘A Psychoeducation Group as a Waitlist Auxiliary for Individuals Seeking Eating Disorder Treatment’, which focused on the Wise Choices and Recovery Warriors groups. This presentation was available to all international conference attendees.

Videos with Aunty Dawn July

2021

In July 2021 Aunty Dawn Daylight, Elder for the Juggera First Nations, kindly sat with us and filmed two videos:

VIEW VIDEO speaks about the importance of EDQ and its services for everyone in the community.

VIEW VIDEO

Yoga Open Day

28 July 2021

explains the significance of our local area - Musgrave Park in West End and welcomes viewers to Country.

Nat and Lucy – our EDQ yoga facilitators, delivered a morning of yoga, chats and tea. Through an open conversation, Nat and Lucy provided information about how yoga can be an effective tool for eating disorder recovery and answered questions. They challenged myths about what yoga is (and isn’t).

Wear It Purple

27 August 2021

Wear it Purple Day is an annual LGBTIQAP+ awareness day, especially for youth based in Australia. EDQ team members wore purple to celebrate young people from the LGBTIQAP+ community and promote visibility. EDQ was a part of this movement this year on the 27th of August, with several staff members opting to wear purple clothing. As healthcare advocates, we can ally ourselves to raise awareness and celebrate the human rights of young people from the LGBTQIAP+ community to foster safe and inclusive environments.

RUOK Day

9 September 2021

Lived Experience speakers Bonnie, Callie, and Michael each filmed a video that was then released as part of the annual joint video by members of the Eating Disorders Alliance Australia (EDAA) for RUOK Day. This year the video focussed on providing tips on speaking to a friend or family member with an eating disorder and ensuring that they are really okay. Members of the EDAA include EDQ, Butterfly Foundation, Eating Disorders Victoria, and Eating Disorders Families Australia.

Suicide Prevention Day

10 September 2021

The 2021 World Suicide Prevention Day theme was 'Creating Hope through Action'. Senior Carer Coach Mel (R) and our Public Health placement student Jess (L) attended the Roses in the Ocean event in Queen Street Mall, which was an excellent opportunity to be present in the community and engage with other mental health organisations in Brisbane.

EDQ Pride Night

29 September 2021

EDQ held our annual Pride evening, where attendees created a rainbow sensory kit, watched a movie, and hung out in a safe and supportive space. Pride Night is not a therapeutic group but a time for our community to come together. Anybody who identifies as part of the LGBTIQAP+ community or is an ally was welcome to attend, and all had a great time as we made sensory boxes.

Eating Disorder Training at ODYS

31 March 2022

David and Nat were invited to deliver some invaluable eating disorder training at Open Doors Youth Service, a Meanjin (Brisbane) based service that supports LGBTIQAP+ Sistergirl & Brotherboy youth. We also invited EDQ Speaker Nadia to present at this training and received fantastic feedback about how valuable this was to the professionals who attended.

Parliamentary Enquiry March 2022

In early 2022, Eating Disorders Qld submitted to the Queensland Government ‘Inquiry into the opportunities to improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders.’ You can find the complete EDQ submission here.

Following this submission, in March, we were invited to be a witness at a public hearing for the Inquiry. Megan Bray (Dietitian) joined Rohie (Care Navigator and Public Health Lead) and Belinda (CEO) to speak at the Queensland Parliament Inquiry into the opportunities to improve mental health outcomes for Queenslanders. At this hearing, we were able to advocate for increased funding for services and focussed public health campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage early access to eating disorder services.

EDQ was quoted in the report as saying, “There is a strong link between the low level of help-seeking among people with eating disorders and the link to stigma. Less than one in four people (23.2 per cent) with eating disorders seek professional help. Stigma and shame are the most frequently identified barriers for accessing treatment. Other factors include denial of and failure to perceive the severity of the illness, practical barriers such as cost of treatment, low motivation to change, negative attitudes towards seeking help, lack of encouragement from others to seek help, and lack of knowledge about helpful resources.”

The finalised report and recommendations from this inquiry were released in June 2022.

VIEW HERE

World Eating Disorders Action Day 26 May 2022

For World Eating Disorder Awareness Day this year, we collaborated with Queensland Alliance for Mental Health and Mental Health Australia. Following a social media campaign and letters sent directly to local ministers, we held an event at Parliament House to speak with Members of Parliament about the necessity of community services such as ours and ask them to pledge a call to action to reduce the burden of eating disorders in QLD. Many members attended and had conversations with EDQ staff and Board members about our services and experiences of eating disorder recovery.

Our key asks for WEDAD were for:

1. Investment in the early onset treatment of eating disorders

2. Early intervention around body image, weight stigma and diet culture in schools

3. Increased funding for Queenslanders impacted by eating disorders

EDQ attended World Eating Disorders Action Day at Parliament House for a lunch with many opportunities to share in activities such as badge making that follow the theme of “Take Action”.

Pictured: The EDQ team visited Parliament House ahead of World Eating Disorder Action Day (WEDAD) to advocate for more funding in the eating disorder recovery space.

STUDENT/VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTIONS

2686 hours over 12months Includingmentoring,volunteering, and student

hours

KAYLA

Kayla began volunteering at EDQ in February 2022. As a recent Master of Public Health graduate, she helped compile feedback from mentors and mentees who completed the Peer Mentor Program in 2020 and 2021. She also assisted with a preliminary qualitative analysis of some of this feedback as part of the program evaluation. The results of this project are currently being finalised.

During this experience, Kayla very quickly developed a deep appreciation for the services provided by EDQ. It was clear in participant feedback that the organisation and its workers provide invaluable support for those experiencing eating issues. Specifically, the value of incorporating peer work and lived experience voices into multimodal service delivery was apparent.

Kayla transitioned to a paid role in the clinical stream at EDQ in June 2022. She is excited to be part of the EDQ team as the service continues to grow.

TAMMY

Tammy joined the EDQ family as a placement student in February of 2022. Due to the changing restrictions, Tammy began her journey with EDQ online. Living in this era of the new normal, she recalled being intrigued and fascinated at how well EDQ had successfully transposed its sessions and programmes online. After being able to convene and provide therapeutic support in person, Tammy reflected on how much she had learned and how fortunate she felt to experience the delivery of services through both platforms.

Every so often, this ever-changing epoch of countless restrictions and rules made it challenging for Tammy to manoeuvre through her journey as a placement student. However, the gentle guidance and regular communication between her and her supervisor, David, coupled with advice from Christophe and the staff, created a steady anchor throughout her journey with EDQ. David provided confidence and assurance whenever necessary, navigating the process through various channels. Tammy credited a significant part of her professional development and personal growth to the guidance and support received from David and the practitioners at EDQ.

After a couple of months at EDQ, Tammy was sure she wanted to continue with the service even after completing her placements. Tammy was involved in the first round of PMP and Therapeutic Group and was enthusiastic about continuing with Plug-In and the second round of Therapeutic Group as a co-facilitator.

Tammy attributes this enthusiasm to the energy and solace she feels whenever she steps into the centre and during group programmes. Tammy is passionate about continuing her EDQ journey, providing support, and creating a safe space for those who come to the centre.

STAFF PROFILES

AMIRA

After recovering from her own experience of an eating disorder and being acutely aware of the isolation and difficulties it brings, Amira felt moved to work with others going through this experience.

In 2021 she completed her Master of Social Work final placement with EDQ and, at the start of 2022, transitioned into a Peer support Worker Position. In her role she aims to provide understanding, a sense of not being in this experience alone, model a different kind of relationship with food and body and give hope that recovery is possible. She also shares her strategies for managing mental health issues and provides encouragement and appropriate information.

Amira has also had the opportunity to regularly facilitate some of the groups at EDQ and gained indispensable knowledge, experience and joy in sharing education and witnessing the collective wisdom and sense of community that comes from group spaces.

Amira brings to her practice her insights from her social work degree and an undergraduate degree in anthropology. As such, she is keenly aware of how culture shapes how we understand and move through the world and, more specifically, how cultural mores contribute to eating disorders. Further, theories learnt throughout her schooling frame her practices, such as strengths-based, person-centred, attachment theory, mindfulness, and an anti-oppressive approach. Her values of equity and social justice, creativity, choice and humour suffuse her work.

Amira is passionate about supporting people to move towards the life they want and believes recovery is possible for every person. Amira always aims to move through the world non-judgementally with kindness, open-mindedness and awareness. She seeks to create a space that feels safe and inspiring and where the client can direct their experience.

Outside work, Amira enjoys board game nights with friends, watching funny British Panel Quiz Shows and doing yoga to unwind.

POPPY

Poppy moved to Australia in 2021 from Aotearoa, New Zealand and has been with EDQ since February 2022.

Poppy is a registered psychotherapist with PACFA and holds a Master of Psychotherapy (Hons), Bachelor of Science (Psychology) and Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy.

Poppy has experience working as a first responder crisis counsellor of victims of sexual harm, in palliative care, working with individuals diagnosed with and in recovery from a terminal illness, and a university psychotherapy clinic available to students and members of the public and private practice.

Having had a lived experience of eating disorders, Poppy is aware of the bravery, courage and strength it takes to reach out for support and join the path towards healing. Poppy is passionate about supporting and empowering those on their unique journey through eating disorder recovery.

At EDQ, Poppy provides individual therapy sessions as well as the facilitation of groups. Poppy works in a psychodynamic frame focusing on the future, drawing upon various approaches to suit individual experiences and needs. Some examples include Psychodynamic, Person-Centred, Compassion-Focused, Emotion-Focused, Strength-Based, Solution-Focused and Trauma-Informed approaches. Poppy strives to incorporate indigenous frameworks into her therapeutic practice, building upon Aotearoa Tangata Whenua frameworks for Australia’s First Nations People.

Outside of work, Poppy enjoys being outdoors, reading, dancing and strength training. Poppy is passionate about nature and animals, which were a large part of her life growing up in her home country Aotearoa New Zealand.

ANONYMOUS

As a woman in her late 30’s battling several co-morbid mental health issues, including a long and enduring ED, I have engaged with multiple mental health service providers and practitioners since my early teen years.

Unfortunately, the initial support attempts made (in 1999 and then again in 2006) and the treatment I received were, unfortunately, both negative and unhelpful experiences and significantly impacted my desire to seek help for many years in both instances. Nothing could be further from the truth in terms of the service and support I have received from Eating Disorders Queensland.

I left full-time employment in 2013 due to burnout and the recognition I once again needed help. I began intensive psychiatric treatment. After multiple attempts and persistence, I obtained a disability support pension that enabled me to focus on recovery. I attended group therapy from a private provider because at that time I had private healthcare cover that enabled me the means to access it.

I first engaged with EDQ back in 2014 for additional support and participated in one of their therapeutic groups. The experience of this 12-week support group back then was phenomenal and I made significant progress in conjunction with my private treatment team.

Due to yet another traumatic experience in 2017 which resulted in the loss of access to the private inpatient and outpatient group support I previously had engaged with and remained only engaged with my treating psychiatrist. For several years I felt undeserving of support as a result at a time I needed it most, I was isolated living alone, lacking meaningful connection, and a sense of belonging and retrospectively recognised the significance this caused in the rapid decline of my mental health.

Due to incredibly tight finances, a no longer emaciated body, and the belief that employment would provide more structure, I was encouraged to return to work. Although I maintained employment since mid-2019 (and do believe the structure helped in many ways) the encouragement I received from my psychiatrist that I was “doing well”, I did not feel or believe to be true. Further, I misinterpreted the statement that due to the length and severity of my mental health issues I would likely just manage symptoms and lower my expectations; as” lost cause why-bother”. I felt like a complete fraud. As a highfunctioning person, I managed to show up in the world, mask and appear ok but behind closed doors, I was experiencing severe depression, desperate

loneliness and engaging in daily ED behaviours and alcohol abuse. I was filled with shame; the secrecy and self-loathing intensified the feeling and I had truly lost hope that recovery would ever be possible

Despite feeling utterly hopeless and unmotivated, I recognised that seeing my psychiatrist (although fortnightly after reaching the safety net each year) was not enough to assist me to make the changes I wished I could implement in my life. I wanted to make social connections but didn’t have the capacity to commit and follow through. I was constantly encouraged to find interests and hobbies but had no desire due to hatred of my appearance and no interests in activities that required isolation (to avoid the judgement of others) drinking to numb pain and simultaneously using/avoiding food to cope.

Despite these feelings, I re-engaged with EDQ in late 2021 and was placed on a waitlist for individual therapeutic support. When an EDQ practitioner reached out to advise we could commence sessions I was in a terrible state. Due to Covid-19 our initial sessions were virtual (which was initially difficult for a multitude of reasons,) but nonetheless her support was unequivocally life-changing.

Intense shame, feeling a lack of identity and attempting to avoid difficult emotions have been some of the biggest barriers for me in seeking (and believing I was deserving of) support.

My practitioner and her therapeutic approach made me feel seen, heard, and understood.

Despite my tendency to judge myself for relying on maladaptive coping mechanisms, and then berate myself for doing so; she encouraged and helped me find and hold space for self-compassion, recognise that the seemingly small achievements I was making were not small at all, that I was making huge feats with long-ingrained behaviours. Lack of patience and unattainably high expectations placed upon me have been something I always recognised as a personal flaw. Upon post-session reflection, I came to realise many of my issues are not my fault. I am not intrinsically worthless. These thinking patterns were flawed and developed due to prolonged experiences of trauma and abuse. I now recognise that my desire to opt for shortcuts usually created lengthy delays, but now see I can slow down and am capable of setting achievable, realistic goals.

My practitioner assisted me to recognise the role my inner critic and negative self-talk were playing. She provided encouragement and ongoing support that

My practitioner assisted me to recognise the role my inner critic and negative self-talk were playing. She provided encouragement and ongoing support that facilitated my ability to notice and acknowledge my thoughts.

facilitated my ability to notice and acknowledge my thoughts. She helped focus my attention on skills, and coping strategies. Further, she encouraged me to re-engage with my previous treating GP who specialises in ED treatment; someone I hadn’t seen since more than doubling by body weight due to the sheer terror of having my weight recorded body exposed for monitoring and believing I no longer needed treatment. This was far from the case, and while it’s still a struggle to show up in the world in my frame my GP has helped me stabilise a multitude of health concerns with medication and regular medical reviews.

Recognising my lack of (yet strong desire) for connection, she suggested a new short 4-week group. I went on to participate and believe provided much needed initial step in breaking my tendency to remain isolated. Her support, alongside positive changes that have co-occurred in my home/work life, have all contributed to my confidence and capacity to continue my recovery.

While I have ebbed and flowed in motivation, I do feel this is the most sustained progress I have made to date and believe the trajectory will continue.

I recognise the work I have done (and the setbacks I have endured) are all cumulative in the process of change, and with tears in my eyes, I can now say I am both proud of my persistence and resilience in not giving up despite the enormous effort required to continue.

I am excited to participate in a 10-week therapeutic group, (another EDQ service my practitioner flagged for me as an option) and after receiving acceptance to participate I am excited and believe

the timing could not have been more impeccable as I transition from 1:1 counselling to group support. Although my symptoms have not resolved, I can now recognise the remarkable improvement. I am more hopeful and generally more positive a life recovered from an eating disorder (and other health issues) is a possibility for me and not just something I will “manage” moving forward.

I wholeheartedly thank my practitioner for our time together and her support and could not recommend EDQ and the (no cost to the individual) services they provide with higher regard. There are so many barriers for people seeking support, I have mentioned but a few, and additionally, the cost is often high on that list. The EDQ service is something I am so grateful to have had the privilege to access and experience and I know it is not I alone that recognises their amazing support as beneficial and invaluable. To that end, after previously feeling alone and undeserving of a place in the ED community, I now feel warmly welcomed and re-engaged with a community that is assisting me to foster my recovery.

These words would have been unfathomable for me to have written a few months ago, and while I credit my own hard work, I could not have done it alone. Serendipitously, as I wrote that sentence a quote flashed up on my I am affirmation app (another helpful tool I wouldn’t have thought to download had I not been working with the positive support of the EDQ psychologist service).

“Be patient with yourself you are growing stronger every day, the weight of the world will become lighter, and you will become brighter, don’t give up” – Robert Tew

I now trust that I will not.

MISSION MOMENTS

Opportunity

The telehealth service has been the ideal way for me to access support from EDQ. It’s convenient and safe but still extremely high quality, personalised support. I was anvious about access a service for the first time, and Telehealth felt less confronting. It’s especially helpful for people like me who live in a regional area."

A carer who participated as a mentee in the Carer Peer Mentor Program (CPMP) has now come back as a mentor. After their loved one had been in recovery for over 12 months, they wanted to come back to the program to give back.”

A client who regularly attends Peer Support Group shared that PSG is the most helpful part of all their weekly supports."

“Two new clients, upon their first visit to EDQ, commented on the space and the artwork on the walls, saying it made them feel like they belong.”

“A client reflected on how far she had come during a session with her practitioner. As she completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q), she realised that over the past year of accessing support she had stopped an eating disorder behaviour that had been a part of her life since she was a teenager.”

to listen, learn and share in a safe space that was online and accessible"

OUR SUPPORTERS

To our supporters and the community, without each and every one of you we wouldn’t be able to do what we do. So thank you!

Other supporters

Dr. Leanne Barron

Dr. Mark McGrath

Queensland Eating Disorder Service NQueDS

Eating Disorder Action Group

Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service

edq.org.au