Community Report 2012- 2013

Mission The Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador (EDFNL) is a leadership advocacy group dedicated to promoting research and providing public support services and information about matters related to eating disorders, including information on available treatment services for individuals and families who experience disordered eating. Goals of EDFNL

To support persons who experience disordered eating by acting as a Resource Cen- tre and a front door to a focused and coordinated treatment path

To promote a healthy body image and self-esteem by way of public education and awareness programs

To advocate at various levels of government, health and community groups to en- sure input and involvement in the decision making processes that affect eating disorder policies and treatments

To educate individuals, professionals, government and families through the distri- bution of materials, an information line, regular awareness programs and a living website

To advocate for and support ongoing research and related medical services

Board of Directors

Vince Withers—Chair Patricia Nash

Wilf Curran – Vice Chair Patrick Collins (Harbour Grace)

Gerry Angel – Treasurer Gina Brown (Gander)

Dr. Olga Heath New Directors for 2013

Cathy Skinner Dr. Pamela Ward

T. Montgomery Keough Betty Powers—Smith (Lower Cove)

Eating Disorder Awareness Week February 3-9, 2013

Schedule of Events

Monday—February 4 Provincial Information Booths Let’s Talk Eating Disorders Education Staff Presentation Throughout Eating Disorder Awareness Week there will be information booths set up at vari- Tuesday - February 5 ous locations across the Province, Here is a Annual General Meeting/Open House list of some of the locations and communities:

31 Peet Street St. John’s (11:00 AM)

Eating Disorder Family Education Group Memorial University Medical/Pharmacy/ 31 Peet Street St. John’s** Nursing School Memorial University Residence – Wednesday - February 6 R. Gushue Dining Hall Information Booth – Memorial Medical Memorial University Student Center School (10:00 AM—3:00 PM) Grenfell University Campus– Corner Information Session - Memorial University Brook Residence Life – Gushue Hall (7:00 PM) St. Clare’s Hospital and Health Science Centre Thursday - February 7 Majors Path Medical Building Let’s Talk Eating Disorders Public Infor- Elizabeth Towers Medical Group – Doc- mation Session – 31 Peet Street** (7:00 tors office PM) Memorial University Student Health Centre Friday - February 8 Dr. Snow’s Dental Clinic Community Lunch and Learn Session Dr. Powell Medical Clinic – Bay Roberts HOPE Program – 35 Majors Path** Dr. G.B. Cross Memorial Hospital – Healing Expressions 1st Annual Event “Out Clarenville of the Darkness”** Western Memorial Hospital – Corner Brook Curtis Memorial Hospital – St. Anthony Saturday – February 9 Central Region Communities – Gander, Ice Caps Care Foundation EDFNL Cheque Harbour Breton, Lewisporte, Botwood, Presentation – Mile One Grand Falls Windsor, Fogo Island, Change Island ** Registration Required: Please contact EDFNL to register for these events 722-0500 or [email protected]

Message from the Chair

The beginning of a new year is a good time to reflect on successes and growth of our Foundation. It appears from the very significant increase in the need for family support services that our awareness message is being well received particularly by those who are in the early stages of an eating disorder. The Foundation has substantially increased its support efforts especially in the areas of education, families supporting families programs and most importantly real progress has been made reaching out to other parts of the Province with our message that early recognition, early treatment can lead to more successful recovery outcomes. For example, the Foundations recent Schools Aware- ness Program which involved visiting 25 schools around the Province was a major step forward in its efforts to build a collaborative relationship with school administrators. While much progress has been made we are concerned about the lack of participation by adolescent males in our various programs. This is unacceptable and has to change as some 20% of eating disorders affect this category.

We also share with many of our eating disorder families the growing need for an Intensive Care Inpatient Program. As our knowledge and understanding of the complexities of an eating disorder in- creases we see an increasing need to advocate for those families who have an advanced eating disorder and therefore require a more intensive and medical program of treatment. The Foundation recognizing this need has presented to the Minister of Health and Community Services a comprehensive proposal on how best to respond to this critical need. We are pleased to say our proposal has been well received by healthcare officials and we are encouraged and hopeful that in time we can expect a positive response.

All Mental Health and Addictions disorders now affect about 20% of our Province. The statistics supporting this claim are daunting as recent studies indicated that Mental Health and Addictions disorders are now one and one half times greater than all cancers combined. As Chairperson of the Minis- ters Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Council I am calling on all of us to understand and accept those of us who are experiencing this type of disorder. This I believe is the most important challenge facing our Province today and it will take a major breakthrough and collaborative effort by all of us if we are to accept this challenge. If we expect the next generation to take up this challenge we must lead by example. Why is it so difficult to accept a sick mind but not a sick body? We cannot be satisfied until Mental Health and Addictions people are treated with fairness, understanding and a reasonable level of service. While good progress is being made in this area I throw out a challenge to all of us to do what we can to advance Mental Health and Addictions attitudes. Why you ask, because it’s the right thing to do, let’s do it for ourselves.

The Eating Disorder Foundation is committed to doing its share to advance and support the lar- ger Mental Health and Addictions issues mentioned. I am optimistic that while these matters are complex and will take time to resolve, we need to celebrate our successes and be hopeful that with a strong community collaborative effort, treatment and support services will continue to improve.

Speaking for our eating disorder families we want to thank our volunteers, our funding sponsors, the Department of Health and Community Services, our Board of Directors, the Regional Health Au- thorities and most importantly our loyal and committed staff who make this happen every day.

Regards, Vince Withers Chair—Eating Disorder Foundation of NL

Message from Executive Director

Eating Disorder Awareness Week always marks the beginning of great things to come for the Eating Disorder Foundation of NL. It also allows us to take a look back at the past year and review the many programs and events that help us achieve our goals.

In 2012 the Foundation has been able to achieve some major milestones. Last April, we co-hosted the Working Better with Eating Disorders Provincial Conference. This conference helped train over one hundred healthcare and education professionals from over 35 communities across the province on innovative techniques by using Emotion Focused and Family based therapies. This conference has enabled the Foundation to grow and collaborate in rural communities across the province and we are delighted to have had the opportunity to connect and engage with so many dedicated professionals. I would like to thank Dr. Olga Heath for her leadership in making this conference a reality.

The Foundation continues to spread our important messages about early detection and early treatment and since this past spring we are seeing a significant increase in the numbers of clients and families that are reaching out to the Foundation for support. What was once 2-4 calls per week is now 2-5 calls daily. While we are very glad that the Foundation is often the first point of contact for families and clients, the increased numbers of seriously sick clients is alarming. This confirms to us that much work in the area of prevention is needed and we will position the Foundation and some of its resources to a more preven- tative approach in 2013. With the growing number of contacts to our office the Foundation also plans to get a clearer understanding of the demographics and social impact of eating disorders in this province and across the country.

We are the voice of clients and families and the Foundation is currently advocating towards an Intensive Inpatient Program for adults in this province. This inpatient program would fill a major gap in eating disorder treatment and would greatly improve the chance of recovery for those suffering with this illness.

Our Family Support and Education groups have been expanded in 2012 and will continue to grow in 2013. We have had the opportunity to present the success of the Foundation and our family groups at two National conferences this past year. For this national exposure we will help guide other provinces to offer similar services. I would like to personally thank Patricia Nash, our Program and Outreach Facili- tator for her passion in counselling and working with families and clients from across the province.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of our volunteers, supporters, sponsors and treatment providers who have helped the Foundation grow. Our success in reaching out to clients and families is only possible because of you. You all believe and support the values of the Foundation and for that we are grateful.

To our Board of Directors, I thank you for your endless support and dedication. I truly believe that we have the most committed Board in the province. You have all supported my role with the Foundation and I am thankful for your dedication and willingness to always be there.

Get ready for a new year of greatness as we expand and build an even stronger Foundation for all.

Sincerely, Ellen M. Foley Executive Director

Proclamation Eating Disorder Awareness Week February 3 – 9, 2013

Whereas: The Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador is a leadership advocacy group dedicated to promoting research and providing public support services and information about matters related to eating disorders, including information on available treatment services for individuals and families who experience disordered eating.

Whereas: Eating Disorders affect many people of the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. As a result the Foundation offers support to persons and families who experience disordered eating by acting as a Resource Centre and a front door to a focused and coordinated treatment path. The Foundation pro- motes healthy body image and self-esteem by way of public education and awareness programs.

Whereas: February 3-9, 2013 is dedicated across Newfoundland and Labrador and the entire country as Eating Disorder Awareness Week, during which many educational and awareness activities take place to help raise the level of understanding of Eating Disorder Prevention, Treatment and Recovery. This year our theme for Eating Disorder Awareness Week is‘ You Know Somebody….The Many Faces of Eating Disorders’ to help the people of the province understand that eating disorders affect all ages, genders and demographics.

It is my pleasure as Minister of Health and Community Services to proclaim the week, and in doing so congratulate the Eating Disorder Foundation on its efforts to advocate, educate and support eating disorder families. Increased awareness is a high priority for the Foundation and is a critical first step to early detection, early treatment and full recovery. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is very supportive of the aims and objectives of the Foundation and trust that your activities and programs for the week will be successful in bringing about a greater understanding of this serious health issue and the need for increased awareness.

Therefore: I, Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services of the Province of New- foundland and Labrador, do hereby proclaim February 3 to February 9, 2013 as Eating Disorder Aware- ness Week.

Mr. Vince Withers Honourable Susan Sullivan Chair – Eating Disorder Foundation of NL Minister of Health and Community Services

Proclamation signing to declare February 3-9, 2013 as Eating Disorder Awareness Week in Newfoundland and Labrador

Front Row: L-R Ellen Foley, Executive Director - EDFNL Hon. Susan Sullivan, Minister of Health and Community Services Vince Withers, Chair - EDFNL

Back Row: L-R Kelly Neville, Wellness Coordinator Memorial University Counselling Centre Kelly Maloney, Clinical Leader - HOPE Program Patricia Nash, Program Coordinator - EDFNL

2012 Program Updates

Let’s Talk Eating Disorder School Program

The Let’s Talk Eating Disorder School program was designed to meet the need expressed through numerous calls from schools across the province requiring information about Eat- ing Disorders and how this illness should be treated or discussed within the school setting. The goal of the program was to reach out to 25 schools in Newfoundland and Labrador and in May 2012 this goal was reached.

It is a concise presentation that gives educators basic information on intervention and prevention of eating disorders within the school. The program was delivered by Patricia Nash, M. Ed. (Counselling Psychology). Patricia is the Out- reach and Program Facilitator with the Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Research shows 10-15% of adolescents have an eating disorder and early diagnosis greatly improves prognosis. To date over 27 schools have received this presentation with positive feedback. Schools realize this presentation will help them be preventive of cases of eating disorders in their schools, help identify possible cases with students and get them to early treatment or assist students returning to school after treatment. Schools are also grateful that this is a provincial initiative.

The Foundation is delighted at the success of this program over the last year and recognizes its great benefit in helping staff work with students with an eating disorder. This program helps us to not only educate staff, but also to be proac- tive in getting help to students in need and therefore helping to facilitate their chance of a good recovery. The information conveyed to schools gives them a better understanding of how to be preventive in the future by working with their students on issues like self-esteem and the healthy vitality message.

The Let’s Talk Eating Disorder school program is an ongoing program at the Foundation with a goal of reaching at least eight schools per year.

Schools that have participated in the Let’s Talk Eating Disorder Program

1. O'Donnell High School, Mount Pearl 14. Crescent Collegiate, Blaketown 2. Holy Trinity High, Torbay 15. Mount Pearl Intermediate 3. St. John Bosco, Shea Heights 16. Mobile Central High School, Mobile 4. Fatima Academy, St. Bride’s 17. Booth Memorial High School, St. John's 5. Stella Maris Academy, Trepassey 18. PWC, St. John’s 6. Indian River Academy, Springdale 19. St. Peter's Junior High, Mount Pearl 7. Pearson Academy, Wesleyville 20. Bishop's College, St. John’s 8. Leo Burke Academy, Bishop’s Falls 21. Ferryland, Southern Shore 9. Lakeside Academy, Buchans 22. Pathfinder School - Stephenville 10. Lewisporte Intermediate & Primary 23. St. Lewis Acadmey, Labrador 11. Glovertown Academy, Glovertown 24. Carbonear Collegiate, Carbonear 12. Fogo Island Central Academy, Fogo 25. St. Mary’s All Grade School, St. Mary’s, Labrador 26. King Academy, Harbour Breton 13. A.R. Scammell Academy, Change Islands 27. St. Bonaventure’s College, St. John’s

Quote from a Central Region Guidance Counsellor on the benefits of this program: “…very much appreciated and I hope you continue to spread your important message throughout the province. Thank you so much for shar- ing with us on this important topic. We appreciate your ability to communicate so clearly and how the Founda- tion encourages care and concern for people with Eating Disorders ”.

Nova Central School District Professional Development Day

On November 20, 2012, the Newfoundland and Labrador Counsellors’ and Psychologists’ Association - Central, in partnership with Nova Central School District hosted a professional development session on Eating Disorders to all the Guidance Counsellors and Educational Psychologists in the Nova Central Dis- trict.

The morning session was facilitated by Ellen Foley, Executive Director of EDFNL and Patricia Nash, who is the Foundations Program and Outreach Facilitator. The session outlined characteristics of Anorexia Ner- vosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder and Eating Disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS). This was an informative session. The practical elements discussed were extremely beneficial for individuals working in the school setting.

EDFNL would like to thank the Nova Central District for giving us such a wonderful opportunity to be present in their community and building capacity for change in treating and preventing eating disorders.

In Photo (left - right): Ellen Foley (Executive Director of EDFNL), Patricia Nash (Program and Outreach Facilitator EDFNL) Glenda Ball (Guidance Counsellor Lewisporte Academy/Lewisporte Intermediate)

NLCPA Newfoundland and Labrador Counsellors’ and Psycholo- gists’ Association

Working Better with Eating Disorders: Combining Emotion Focused & Family Based Interventions Across the Lifespan On April 18 & 19, 2012 , the Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Eating Disorder Interprofessional Community Capacity Building Project Team, co-hosted the Working Better with Eating Disorders Provincial Conference. Over 100 healthcare and education professionals attended the two day training session that was presented by experts Dr. Joanne Dolhanty and Dr. Adele La- France Robinson, both Registered Psychologists in Ontario. Dr. Dolhanty and Dr. LaFrance Robinson have developed an innovative treatment model for eating disorders by incorporating a combination of two evidence based approaches - Emotion Focused Therapy and Family Based Therapy.

This training opportunity allowed professionals from across the province to learn this innovative technique in treating eating disorder clients and families, as well as a chance to network and collaborate with one an- other. Feedback from this workshop has been very positive and the Foundation plans to host more oppor- tunities in the future that will help advance eating disorder education and training skills for our treatment providers. Professional representation at the conference included representatives from over 35 communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. The success of community capacity building has certainly been evident at the Foundation with a significant increase in contact from rural communities across the province.

As part of this conference, Dr. Dolhanty and Dr. Adele LaFrance Robinson hosted an evening community session that was open to those who are supporting a loved one with an eating disorder. Over 50 families were in attendance at this session which they found very helpful in better understanding this illness. This session was video recorded and copies are available to families by contacting our Resource Centre.

The Working Better with Eating Disorders Conference was proudly supported by:

Eating Disorder Foundation presents at National Eating Disorder Conferences

On May 17 and 18, 2012, Patricia Nash and Ellen Foley of the EDFNL co-presented at the Third Atlantic Eating Dis- order Symposium in Moncton, New Brunswick. This symposium was hosted by Dr. Chuck Emmry’s, a clinical psychologist in Moncton, NB who has been active in clinical work with eating disorder clients for over 30 years.

The topic presented by the Foundation was The Success of Family Support in Newfoundland and Labrador. This presentation highlighted how education and support can greatly benefit families in helping a loved one recover from an eating disorder. This session was well received and since this presentation, other provinces have called upon the Foundation to share best practices and help them set up similar groups in their area. Patricia Nash has co-facilitated family groups for many years and brought her experience to the delegates in attendance on the Family Education Sup- port Group Newfoundland and Labrador.

L-R: Patricia Nash, Dr. Chuck Emmrys, Ellen Foley

The Eating Disorder Association of Canada (EDAC-ATAC) is a Cana- dian organization of professionals in the field of eating disorders and related areas. On October 11 and 12, 2012 EDAC-ATAC hosted its third EAT LIVE PLAY bi-annual conference in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

EDFNL was once again selected to present “The Success of Family Support in Newfoundland and Labrador”. This 90 minute presentation well attended and received by professionals from across the country.

This session highlighted the success of Family Support in NL and how other provinces can follow this model to help support families and clients in their province.

We were delighted to spend time at this conference with our friends from the Memorial Counselling Centre — Dr. Michele Neary and Kelly Neville. 11

Are You Watching Me Now

The Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador had many requests to develop a wellness program designed for youth groups across the province. From this request, the Foundation received the creative advice from Clar Doyle, a prominent figure in arts, education and the local theatre scene. Doyle researched and wrote a play that is meant to be performed by university students and community groups across the Province to help encourage healthy self esteem and positive messages.

On April 26, 2012 , EDFNL hosted the first screening of Are You Watching Me Now - at the Arts and Culture Cen- tre Basement Theatre. The play was directed by Darrel Brenton and was performed by a cast of Level 3 Booth Memo- rial and Memorial University students (cast listed below).

Are You Watching Me Now is woven around a central character, Tina Davis, who is present in the play but never seen or heard by the audience, yet she is real to the other characters. Tina has developed an eating disorder called anorexia nervosa and the characters portrayed in the play - her friends and family are deeply affected by this. The characters challenge each other on how Tina developed this illness; was it from the pressures of society's 'thin - ideal'? Are we all struggling from body related concerns? How have we as society been negatively influenced by the fashion, popular media, entertainment and advertising industry?

As part of the play there is a feature song called Are You Watching Me Now that is played. The song was gener- ously written and recorded by Damhnait Doyle and Stuart Cameron.

The Foundation plans to host screenings of this play across the province in 2013.

Are You Watching Me Now Cast April 26, 2012

Director Darrel Brenton Mr. Dillon Sheldon Downey Tina Frances Davis Adena Cahill John Davis Philip McDermot Jed Tyler Downey Sarah Maria Bradbury Heather Chantal Lemarche Carol Christina Hamlyn Doctor Lori Wareham Nurse Heather Cooper. Stage Manager Jessica McErlean

Centre For Nursing Studies: Community Health Nursing Practice

During the Fall of 2012, the Eating Disorder Foundation was pleased to partner with Memorial Univer- sity’s Centre for Nursing Studies by taking six students for the Community Health Nursing Practice course (NURS 4501). The students were expected to spend the first month of their placement collecting literature and interviewing eating disorder health professionals by conducting surveys and focus groups For the remainder of the semester, each group of students were involved with the planning and development of a final resource product. The first group of students developed a resource manual for primary health care professionals and the second developed a health promotion and wellness manual for students.

The Foundation was pleased with the students dedication and eagerness to learn more about eating disorders. We wish the students the very best in their studies and future careers as nurses!

EDFNL Lunch and Information Sessions

During 2012 the Eating Dis- order Foundation hosted and had several requests to de- liver eating disorder information sessions and Lunch and Learn sessions to corporate and community groups across the province.

The demand for these sessions continues to grow and if your organization would like EDFNL to host a session at your workplace we would be delighted to come and share information on how to help a co-worker or friend if they have an eating disorder, as well as give information on our programs and services and avail- ability of treatment and services across the province .

Success of Family Education and Support

Last summer the Foundation for the first time offered the Bridge to Hope: Family Education and Support Group. This is an 8 week group offered to Carers (parents, partners or other family members) who are supporting a loved one struggling with an eating disorder. Research tells us that this type of group support is essential for families. This group at the Foundation is also unique in that it is co-facilitated by Patricia Nash, the Foundations Program and Outreach Facilitator and Cathy Skinner, a EDFNL Board Director, who are both founding Moms of the monthly Parents of Hope group. Families find it comforting to hear the lessons learned by parents who have experienced the struggles of and eating disorder within their families.

When families are supporting a loved one with an eating disorder the stress on the family is tremendous. This stress comes from many sources such as families not knowing the illness; not knowing how to help the loved one who is struggling; not knowing where to turn for support; not knowing what to do or say that might hinder instead of help and overall feeling very alone with the eating disorder. Families are aware of the serious physical conse- quences of an eating disorder with statistics that tell us there can be an 80% recovery rate and up to a 20% mortal- ity rate.

Families also struggle to come to a gradual acceptance of the mental illness component of the eating disorder as well as the long term struggle their loved one can have to face. Families need to feel supported in this struggle. Research tells us if families are supported the outcome for the loved one is usually much better. Many times families feel they are watching the slow suicide of their family member because of the effects of the eating disorder and they are helpless to stop it from happening.

The Foundation has been very successful in the past year in facilitating support for families. In the summer session of the group there were about 12 family members (parents and partners) in attendance. The group was offered again in the fall with about 10 family members attending. This winter the group has 18 family members registered; this includes three families from the west coast. We are working hard at the Foundation to make this group support available to families across the province through teleconference participation.

The Bridge to Hope group has a support and education component to it. Families gather much needed support from each other but they also receive presentations in week 2-7 of the group. These presentations are from very knowl- edgeable health professionals who are experts in the field of eating disorders. Families hear interactive talks from a psychologist, dietitian, psychiatrist, social worker, and a medical doctor. In a very supportive and confidential environment families are thoroughly educated about the complexities of an eating disorder. In week 7 of the group experienced Carers (parents/partners) present their stories to the new families and share their hard earned wisdom and knowledge around EDs. After completing this 8 week group families are invited to join the monthly Parents or Partners of Hope Group facilitated by social worker Nancy White at the HOPE Program.

It is one of the goals of the EDFNL to continue to offer this group at least four times a year; so if you are a family struggling with a loved one’s eating disorder please contact the EDFNL. Families from across the province can participate.

If you would like more information on how you can register for the Family Education and Support Group please contact Patricia Nash, EDFNL Program and Outreach Coordinator .

Quotes from Families

Here are some comments from the past groups:

‘The family group was a God send to us- it provided that safe place to talk, cry, laugh and just know it was ok to feel any way I felt!’

‘The Family Group was excellent…it made me feel there is hope and help’

‘In the group setting I received amazing insight into the challenges of an eating disorder. It is an inspiration to see and hear families who have come out of this alive and sane’

‘Having the sessions co-facilitated by experienced parents is one of the real strengths of the group’

United Way Grant helps expand Family Support Program

In 2012 United Way helped fund the ex- pansion of the Family Education and Sup- port Program with a grant of $10,000.

With the funding received from United Way the Foundation is now able to expand the support services to other areas of the province and help reach out to many struggling families across Newfoundland and Labrador.

Thank you United Way on behalf of all the families we support.

A Story of Courage and Hope By Melissa Power

A little over a year ago I sat in a doctor’s office and was asked the notorious question, “A year from now where do you see yourself?”...My eating disorder was so out of control I could not even venture to think about the next day, let alone a year from then. My first thoughts were, “I will be hospital or dead.”

Sitting here today I never thought I would be where I am; I will have conquered nine months of recovery on February 2nd. I am not saying it was easy, actually it has been the hardest thing I have ever done, and saying I am com- pletely free of ED would be a lie. ED still rears its ugly head but I am now equipped with the weapons I need to fight it, and I am winning the battles. Days that my eating disorder feels too strong to combat by myself and lean on my supports and with their help we fight ED together.

I could not imagine life without my eating disorder, I thought it was my best friend but I was defiantly wrong! With intense therapy working on issues that I never believed had anything to do with ED, and the constant support from family, friends, and health care professionals, I emerged from the grips of ED’s hold. I was able to begin to envision life without my eating disorder something I believed, I swore was impossible. I am writing this to tell you that ED makes us believe recovery is impossible, the mind games and decreased physical health makes one feel as though they are not strong enough, but with the right help and supports recovery is possible for you! You can beat ED; you can begin to make your own decisions in life. The best feeling ever is when you are able to say to your eating disorder, “I am my own person and you no longer control me!” You will have days where you wonder if all the effort is worth it, but on those days you need to look at the little things that make life better without ED. Making a list of your accomplishments no matter how small you think they are to look at on days that are difficult is a good reminder of why you continue the fight. It takes time and effort and sure it is tiring, but it is worth it, I promise.

There is a life just waiting for you after you break your ties with ED. You can do it, you can beat it, you can begin to live your life the way it is meant to be lived. Recovery is possible, I am living proof; so no matter how scared or frightened you are try to reach out and being the journey to a life you deserve without ED. There are better things waiting for you just around the corner all you have to do is take that first step on the path of recovery! You can do it, I believe in you!

Advocacy: Inpatient Unit

As the leading advocacy group in the province EDFNL is the voice of our clients and families and we have a responsibility to act on a major gap in eating disorder care. On November 1, 2012 , the Foundation sent a letter of recommendation and proposal to the Minister of Health and Community Services recommending the need for a dedicated eating disorder inpatient unit for our adult population. The current lack of an inpatient unit is placing a tremendous strain on the recovery process for eating disorder clients in this province and the numbers of seriously ill clients we are encountering is distressing. These clients require specialized inpatient care that is currently difficult and complex to receive, and in some cases not available.

The proposal submitted for Provincial Inpatient Program would consist of a 6 bed unit that would be dedicated for those clients 18 years and older who are suffering from anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or ED- NOS (eating disorder not otherwise specified). These clients would be admitted to this unit when they have severe medical and psychological complications or those when the current HOPE program is insufficient to resolve their eating disorder symptoms. The proposed treatment plan would consist of full 24-hour hospi- talization and intensive, specialized treatment which would be led by an interdisciplinary team of medical and mental health professionals. This medical unit should be in a secure, warm and comforting environment where individualized care for each client can be offered. Upon completion of the inpatient care, transition into or return to the HOPE program would be streamlined and suited to the needs of the client.

We are pleased to say our proposal has been well received by healthcare officials and we are hopefully optimistic that in time we can expect a positive response.

Prevention: Body Talk Project

Ever wonder why people make such a big deal out of the way you look? Messages surround us about body shape, weight and physical features that are believed to be more attractive. These messages can affect the way that women think and feel about themselves and they can even encourage some people to do things that may not be healthy in order to try to look a certain way.

EDFNL is about to embark on a new and exciting initiative that aims to support teenaged girls (ages 15 – 18) and their mothers to work together to explore how societies’ messages about appearance and weight affect their own thoughts, feelings and behaviors related to their body image.

The Body Talk project will be offered in partnership with Dr. Michele Neary, a psychologist with the Counselling Cen- tre, Memorial University of Newfoundland, and other researchers and clinicians. Our project will build on the Body Project developed by Dr. Eric Stice from the Oregon Research Institute. Through this project young women get involved in activities which not only help them to re-think the messages but to develop their own ways of challenging and resisting pressures to look a certain way. Dr. Neary has been implementing this program with university-aged women in the last three years and is excited to turn her focus to younger women and their mothers.

The project involves eight weekly sessions (1.5 hours) during which teenagers and their mothers will come together with facilitators to learn about pressures to look a certain way and to develop approaches for challenges these pressures. It is anticipated that groups will be held this spring and fall, 2013.

The Foundation is looking for teenagers (aged 15-18) and mothers who would like to participate in this project. If you are interested in becoming a part of this initiative, you can contact EDFNL at 709-722-0500.

How Do I Know If I Have An Eating Disorder? Check Yourself Against These Symptoms:

You can be fairly certain that you have an eating problem if your eating behavior or attitudes about weight interrupt your life and take the pleasure out of it. Typically, people with eating problems are preoccupied with their weight, shape and the food they are consuming. You may have an eating problem if you experience some of the following:

Yes No

1. Excessive concern about weight, shape and calories ______2. Unusual eating habits ______3. Irregular periods or periods have stopped ______4. Depression or irritability ______5. Guilt or shame about eating ______6. Strict avoidance of certain foods, those considered fattening ______7. Feeling fat when not “overweight” ______8. Use of laxatives, diuretics, purgatives ______9. Excessive exercise ______10. Vomiting to purge food ______11. Noticeable weight loss ______12. Frequent weight fluctuation ______13. Extreme concern about appearance ______14. Denial of the dangers of low weight ______

What Do I Do If I Think I Have An Eating Disorder?

First step in overcoming an eating disorder is to recognize and acknowledge the problem. Eating Disorders can be treated successfully and professional help is always required. Recognize that you need help and that you cannot “do it alone”. Early treatment is an essential component of recovery and has been shown to be more successful. Discuss your eating disorder with family members and close friends who will want to support you. Acknowledge that medical attention is critical for proper diagnosis and ongoing health monitoring. Be informed and educate yourself on the facts about eating disorders. Attend public forums. Eating disorders don’t “go away”; experienced help is required for full recovery. Consult your Eating Disorder Foundation for advice, information and support. If you are not satisfied with the help you receive do not be discouraged, seek out more help.

Eating Disorder Foundation Programs and Support Services

The Foundation is proud to offer several Programs and Services: Client Consultation Program Families Supporting Families Support Group Bridge to Hope Family Education and Support Program Let’s Talk Eating Disorders Awareness Campaign – Schools/Educators Let’s Talk Eating Disorders Awareness Campaign – Healthcare Profes- sionals Eating Disorder Provincial Conference – April 2012 Eating Disorder Public Awareness and Education Presentations Student Eating Disorder Awareness Committee Speakers Bureau Resource Centre Resource Material Loaner Program Quarterly Butterflyer Newsletter Monthly Hope Always Message Social Media and List Serve Programs Eating Disorder Awareness Week Research Grant Program Media and Promotional Programs Donor Recognition Program Volunteer Recognition Program Renata Elizabeth Withers Scholarship Program Are You Watching Me Now

Chair receives Red Cross Humanitarian Award

The Staff and Board of Directors of the Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador would like to extend our sincere congratulations to the Foundation's Chair, Mr. Vince Withers upon re- ceiving the 2012 Red Cross Humanitarian Award for Newfoundland and Labrador.

"Vince Withers personifies what we seek to highlight with these awards, which is that amid all other de- mands in people's lives, there are those who make time for volunteerism, advocacy and philanthropy, and whose leadership inspires others to pursue humanitarian goals," said John L. Byrne, director general of the Canadian Red Cross in Atlantic Canada.

Withers is founder and chairperson of the Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador, an advocacy group dedicated to research, and providing public support services and information on eating disorders. Shortly after it was established, he played a key role in the opening of the Renata Elizabeth Withers Treatment Centre for HOPE, named after his daughter who passed away from an eating disorder. In 1997 Withers was named a member of the Order of Canada. He has received many other accolades for his dedication to community through sport, education, and health care including: an honorary doctor of laws from Memorial University (1998), the Governor General 125th Anniversary Medal (1992), and the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal (2003). He continues to spend countless hours assisting clients and families to help improve their access to services.

In 2010 Withers was appointed chairperson of the Provincial Ministerial Advisory Council for Mental Health and Addictions. The council advises the minister of Health and Community Services on key mental health and addictions matters in order to enhance services and improve the lives of those living with mental health and addictions issues in Newfoundland and Labrador. Withers is also a member of the New- foundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame and the Canadian Softball Hall of Fame. He is retired from a long career with Newtel Enterprises & Newfoundland Telephone, culminating as president and chief executive officer. He has been a leader throughout his life using his business experience and demonstrating the compassion at the heart of a humanitarian.

Congratulations Mr. Withers on this well deserved honour. We are very thankful for all you do for the Foundation and for all you have done to be a true leader and humanitarian in Newfoundland and Labra- dor.

Renata Elizabeth Withers Memorial Scholarship

The Eating Disorder Foundation is pleased to announce that

Stacy Smith & Amanda Cranford

have been awarded with this years

Renata Elizabeth Withers Memorial Scholarships

Stacy Smith is a clinical psychology doctoral student, who has had the opportunity to focus on eating disorders in both clinical and research activities. She chose to work with a supervisor, psychologist Dr. Jacqueline Carter who spe- cializes in eating disorders, whose primary research is concerned with understanding the factors that are correlated with treatment dropout.

Stacy’s thesis focuses on anorexia nervosa and addressing the assessment of its associated clinical features of body image dissatisfaction, body checking and body image avoidance. Specifically, she will be establishing the validity and reliability of a questionnaire designed to measure body checking, and will be comparing how the prevalence of body checking and avoidance differs between a sample of university students and a sample of patients with anorexia nervosa completing an inpatient treatment program.

We congratulate Stacy on her efforts thus far and have confidence she will continue to work and advocate for eating disorder services.

Amanda Cranford graduated from Memorial University in May 2012 with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Psychology. Undertaking a degree in psychology has provided her with an extraordinary opportunity to gain insight into human behaviour, health science, mental health, and neuroscience. It has also allowed her to develop a passion for people, an appreciation of individual differences, and an awareness surrounding mental illnesses within our society.

Amanda’s undergraduate honours thesis, broadly speaking, involved conducting a research project related to disordered eating. From a neuroscience perspective, the objective of her research experiment was to examine the effect of repeated exposure to palatable, high sugar foods and investigate the effect that such food has on the nervous system. Amanda is currently con- tinuing her undergraduate education in a variety of science courses to assist with her preparation for medical school.

We congratulate Amanda on her work in psychology related to eating disorders and wish her luck in her future plans.

Eating Disorder Foundation Fundraisers

We extend our many thanks and appreciation to our wonderful volunteers, corporate friends and the general public in helping us make our 2012 fundraising events a great success. Below is a recap of our great events! We encourage you to get involved in our events for 2013!

Remembering Renata Golf Tournament

This years Remembering Renata Golf Tournament was held on September 20, 2012 on a beautiful sunny day! The wonderful support we received from all of our participants was overwhelming. Over $10,000 was raised for the Foundation. We especially want to thank our Co-Chairs Ted Cantwell and Steve Bragg and the numerous sponsors and volunteers who made this one of our best events yet!

Chair Steve Bragg with Volunteers & Staff Winning Team: F.J. Wadden & Sons Ltd.

Christmas at the Glacier

This year the organizers of the annual Christmas at the Gla- cier, kindly donated a booth to the Foundation.

Volunteers and Staff distributed information on eating disorder services offered in the province and sold 50/50 tickets. We sold over 3000 tickets and raised $4000. Congratulations to the lucky winner.

We look forward to participating again next year.

HOPE ALWAYS WALK

This years Hope Always Walk was the best walk yet! In addition to increasing eating disorder awareness across Newfoundland and Labrador, we raised over $20,000. Hundreds of walkers put on their running shoes and walked around local parks and trails in Paradise, Conception Bay North, New-Wes Valley, Corner Brook, and St. John's.

We are pleased that our walk has expanded to many communities across the province. We were delighted to see so many of our friends and supporters participating in the Walk, it's this kind of support that encourages the Foundation to continue to focus on its mandate of supporting eating disorder families.

Thanks to everyone who participated, made a pledge or coordinated a walk in their community. We appreciate this commitment and support, and your contribution is making a very positive differ- ence.

Concert of Hope

The 5th Annual Concert of Hope was once again a sold out show! Guests packed the Arts and Culture Centre to see The Masterless Men and Shanney- ganock rock the stage! Shelia Williams hosted the concert and had the audience laughing all night! This years concert raised almost $25,000! We thank the wonderful audience who purchased tickets and came out to see the show!

We thank Mr. Wilf Curran (EDFNL - Vice Chair), who has turned the annual Concert into one of the best shows in the province! We were happy Wilf joined the Masterless Men on stage!

We look forward to seeing a full house again next year!

Nursing Charity Ball Donation

The Nursing Charity Ball, which takes place in March of every year, is a joint effort among the two Memorial University Nursing Schools to raise money for a selected charity. In 2012, the charity selected the Eating Disorder Foundation of NL.

The Foundation was grateful to have received a donation of $10,000 to help support our many programs and services. Chad Wardford and Hilary Turner co-chaired the event.

We thank all the nurses and supporters of the Charity Ball for this generous donation!

Ice Caps Care Foundation Donation

The Eating Disorder Foundation thanks the Ice Caps Care Foundation for their generous donation of $5000. The support from organizations such as the Ice Caps allows the Foundation to expand our programs and services for all clients and families across the Province! Thank you!

Recognizing and Responding to Disordered Eating

Eating habits that many people think are normal – such as eliminating certain food groups, skipping meals, feeling guilty when eating the “bad” foods, and ignoring one’s hunger and satiety (fullness) cues– are actually symptoms of disordered eating. Disordered eating also includes a wide range of other abnormal eating behaviours like emotional over eating and following strict food rules and rituals.

Disordered eating has an effect on overall health: emotionally, socially, and physically. It can cause feelings of low mood, low self-esteem, and increased stress and can lead to social isolation. People with disordered eating may have decreased energy, poor concentration, difficulty sleeping, loss of control when food is available, and lowered metabolic rate.

Dieting is one form of disordered eating. Many people in society think that it is healthy to be dieting. A common belief pattern that is associated with dieting behaviour is, ‘If I fit into society’s “norm” of thinness, I will be happy, healthy, attractive, and successful”. The multi-billion dollar diet industry, that depends on continued dieting, helps to create and reinforce this belief. However, the evidence that this belief is flawed is all around us. Some thin people are unhealthy, unhappy, and unsuccessful and some "not thin" people are healthy, happy and successful. There is little evidence to support the belief that there is a strong correlation between size and variables that we commonly equate with life satisfaction.

Dieting and other forms of disordered eating are not effective strategies for enhancing our feelings about ourselves and our lives. On the contrary, they often contribute to negative feelings and beliefs about ourselves as we experience recurrent cycles of failure with weight control. Most people with disordered eating do not have an eating disorder. However, the constant obsession about body weight, fat grams, and calories can start a vi- cious cycle of body dissatisfaction that can lead all too quickly to an eating disorder. Eating disorders are on the extreme continuum of disordered eating.

There are so many misconceptions when it comes to nutrition and dieting that it can be confusing to understand and recognize normal eating. Canada’s Food Guide is an excellent source of information about the variety and amounts of healthy food options we should be incorporating into our eating - allowing all foods to fit, and enjoy- ing regular physical exercise. Normal eating is flexible. Eating can be an enjoyable experience. Instead of using food as a way of coping with emotional stressors or numbing the body, nurture yourself and take care of your physical and emotional needs. Learning to love and accept yourself just as you are will give you self-confidence, better health and a sense of well-being that will last a lifetime.

If you or anyone you know are exhibiting disordered eating behaviours and it is affecting you either physically or mentally, it is important to talk to your family physician, registered dietitian or a counsellor.

Kelly Maloney RD. M.Sc. is the Clinical Leader and Dietitian at the HOPE Program, Day Treatment Program for Eating Disorders, Eastern Health.

HOPE Program 35 Majors Path Suite 101 St. John's, NL A1A 4Z9 Phone 709 752 3611 Fax 709 777 2042

Eating Disorder Foundation of NL — Resource Library

Books The Eating Disorder Sourcebook If An Adolescent Has An Eating Disorder The Deadly Diet: Recovering From Anorexia When Dieting Becomes Dangerous and Bulimia Anorexia and Bulimia in the Family The Good Eater Talking To Eating Disorders Making Weight Eating Disorders: A Parent's Guide The Beginner's Guide to eating disorders recov- The Body Myth ery Eating Disorders: The Journey to Recovery Wasted A Memoir of Anorexia and Bulimia Workbook Overcoming Overeating; When Women Stop Eating With Your Anorexic Hating Their Bodies Foxy Fables Too Fat or Too Thin? The Invisible Man Getting Better Bit(e) by Bit(e) 100 Questions & Answers about Anorexia Ner- Just a Little Too Thin vosa Anorexia Nervosa; a survival guide for families, Just For Boys friends and sufferers Boys Get Anorexia Too Overcoming Binge Eating Goodbye ED, Hello Me Surviving An Eating Disorder: Strategies for going hungry Family and Friends Conquering Eating Disorders Eating Disorders in Children and Adolescents my kid is back When You Child Has An Eating Disorder Beating ANA Real Gorgeous Lying in Weight Hunger for Understanding Next to Nothing Help for Eating Disorders This mean disease The Anorexia Diaries Life Beyond your eating Disorder Life Without ED How I Look Preventing Eating Disorders among Pre-Teen Fed Up Girls Father Hunger The Anorexia Workbook What's eating you? The Body Image Workbook 8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder Help Your Teenager Beat An Eating Disorder When Women Stop Hating Their Bodies The Overcoming Bulimia Workbook Out Loud

DVD/VHS Perfect Illusions: Eating Disorders and the Family Voices of Recovery Body Image for Boys Dying to Be Thin Overcoming Eating Disorders Eating Disorders: The Inner Voice Parenting a Child with an Eating Disorder

Eating Disorder Foundation of NL Income Statement December 31, 2012

REVENUE

DONATIONS $16,291.89 (Note 1) ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT 11,195.69 CONFERENCE 6,537.78 (Note 2) CONCERT OF HOPE 22,424.28 SUSTAINABLE GRANT 50,000.00 GRANTS 15,000.00 HOPE ALWAYS WALK 20,103.10 (Note 3) MISCELLANEOUS 6,080.67 (Note 4) 147,633.41

EXPENSES SCHOLARSHIPS 2,000.00 PROGRAM & SUPPORT SERVICES 8,266.15 Note 5 STAFF & BENEFITS 114,561.48 Note 6 RENT 19,380.31 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 2,238.96 INSURANCE 1,937.00 TRAVEL 5,501.78 PROJECTS & EVENTS 3,024.93 OFFICE SUPP. & POST. 4,089.41 161,000.02

DEFICIT -$13,366.61

Gerry Angel, CPA/CMA Date: February 5, 2013

Budget Notes: Note 1: Includes Nurses Charity Ball was one time event Note 2: Conference was one time event Note 3: Hope Always Walk revenue increased by 50% Note 4: Miscellaneous included In Memorial donations, 50/50 Ticket sales etc Note 5: This includes the cost of the Are You Watching Me Now Play

Note 6: The major increase in expenses for 2012 were for Staff & Benefits reflecting the full year for 3 staff. One additional staff hired October 2011 and less than full year for Executive Director in 2011.

Note of Thanks The Eating Disorder Foundation of NL is grateful for the significant support received this past year. The support of our community and corporate partners has helped get our important message across regarding this serious health issue. We look forward to your continued support as we move to the next phase of the Foundations future.

The Eating Disorder Foundation of NL is here to support the hundreds of loved ones and clients across Newfoundland and Labrador who are battling eating disorders.

Connect with the Eating Disorder Foundation of NL today to access information, resources, educational programs and support services.

The Eating Disorder Foundation of Newfoundland and Labrador

31 Peet Street, Suite 230 St. John’s, NL A1B 3W8

(T) 709-722-0500 (F) 709-722-0552

Email: [email protected] www.edfnl.ca Like us on Facebook and Join us on Twitter!