First, let’s unpack the basics. What is peer work? 

Our Peer Mentoring Program (PMP) is a FREE treatment option, providing one-on-one mentoring with an EDV Peer Mentor who has recovered from an eating disorder.  

Reciprocity is at the centre of the Peer Support relationship and is fostered through shared experiences. Co-designed by and for people with lived experience of an eating disorder, PMP is described by one of our mentors as the “missing link in mental health support.” 

“Peer Support is all about connecting with someone in a way that contributes to both people learning and growing.” – Clare, Senior Advisor & Peer Mentor 

 

“I think of peer work as the missing link for mental health support.

It is two people with shared experiences of mental health challenges coming together, building connection and reflecting on each other’s perspectives.

It allows people to feel heard and understood by people who will not judge them.” – Stefan, Senior Advisor & Peer Mentor 

Peer support is a treatment option by and for people with lived experience of an eating disorder. A peer mentor is someone with a shared experience who is trained to support you one-on-one. This is important because the knowledge and support of those who have been through eating disorders, and recovered, can be an important part of the recovery journey.

“Peer Support provides a space for the more practical elements of recovery. Examples might be engaging in mindful movement, exploring self-care strategies or meal support.” – Clare, Senior Advisor & Peer Mentor 

 

“Going through recovery from an eating disorder can be isolating. It can feel like ‘nobody gets it’. But there are people out there that do!

These people know how challenging recovery can be. They understand the shame and stigma that one can feel. But most importantly, they know that recovery is possible.

These people are peer workers, and they have lived every moment of recovery that you and others may be feeling. It is through this shared connection, that peer workers can support others going through eating disorder recovery from a place of genuine lived understanding and experience.” – PMP Program Officer 

 

“For many reason people with eating disorders can feel:

• Recovery is not possible  

• Ashamed or stigmatised  

• Like no one understands or experiences the same challenges  

When people meet a peer worker who has recovered from an eating disorder, it can be the first time that someone understands their challenges, struggles and experiences. It can instill hope that they too can recover one day. It can also allow the person to discover themselves and who they are beyond a diagnosis.”  – Stefan, Senior Advisor & Peer Mentor 

Meaningful connections are transformative in eating disorder recovery. Peer support plays a crucial role in this process.  

Our PMP team’s perspectives remind us that recovery isn’t a solo journey. When done in community, support and understanding can make all the difference.   

“Connection is the core value of peer work. It is the moment when someone else “gets it” and we feel heard. It is the beginning of building trust. When we form connection in peer work, there is a sense of respect that feels intuitive; it creates a sense of belonging” – Clare, Senior Advisor & Peer Mentor

 

“Meaningful connections matter to the Peer Mentoring Program. Building meaningful connections help our mentors to make participants feel safe, supported and socially connected. At times, going through recovery from an eating disorder can be isolating, so to have someone you can connect with in a meaningful way can reduce that feeling of being alone and lessen the burden of recovery from our participants.” – PMP Program Officer

 

“Identity. The power of connection in the Peer Mentoring Program has seen many rediscover who they are and what they want in life. Connection can be done through storytelling, reflection, relatable experiences and challenges, and shared interests. It can be so exciting to see the steps people take to move towards their true self and separate themselves from the eating disorder.” – Stefan, Senior Advisor & Peer Mentor

#MeaningfulConnectionsMatter #WMHD2024