Lived experience stories of recovery from an eating disorder provide much needed hope to people affected by eating disorders. They prove that recovery from an eating disorder is possible, and highlight the diverse journeys people take to get there. Sharing your story also gives you a chance to reflect on your own experience, and may help you find acceptance or peace within your own journey.

Who can share their story?

• Individuals who have recovered from an eating disorder
• Anyone who has been close to someone who has recovered from an eating disorder (parents, siblings, partners, friends, grandparents etc.)

We know that everyone’s experience of an eating disorder is unique and no two stories are the same. We encourage a broad and diverse range of stories, from both individuals who have recovered, and those who have supported them along the way.

Where will stories be published?

Recovery stories will be published on the EDV website. If we’re interested in using your story for another EDV publication, we will contact you for your permission.

Things to think about

It’s important your story remains recovery focused. Take some time to reflect on the following questions.

Do I feel ready to write my story? If yes, do I have supports in place in case I need them?

Is what I’m writing helpful for the reader? How am I making them feel?

What is the message I want to leave the reader with?

• Do not use specifics in your story as they can potentially be triggering for the reader. For example, no numbers or descriptive behaviours. Please do not name specific service providers or people.
• Create a short, meaningful title so readers can identify the particular subject areas that interest them.
• Let us know how you would like to be acknowledged. We will include a “contributed by x” at the end of your story, however if you would rather not use your first name, you can suggest an alias or pseudonym that you prefer.
• Word limit: aim for 500 to 700 words. However, if you want to write more, the upper limit is 1,200 words.

Review process

All stories will be reviewed before being published. Slight changes may be made for editorial purposes. EDV also reserve the right not to publish stories that do not fit the guidelines. If at any stage you would like your story removed, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with us.

Support

If you would like to speak to someone during this process, please contact us on 1300 550 236 or email hub@eatingdisorders.org.au. For crisis support, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.

If you would like to submit your story, please send an email to communications@eatingdisorders.org.au. Please include your story as an attachment.