Eating Disorder Support Network of Alberta Society

Hybrid workshops on specific topics were offered this term but all support group programming remained entirely virtual. EDSNA provided 13 multi-week support groups and 20 nights of single-session group programming during this time frame-- over 190 registrations. In addition to programming for people with eating disorders and caregivers EDSNA provided workshops on meal support body image interoception & sensory modulation and the biological underpinnings of eating disorders. Outcomes and participant feedback is monitored through anonymous self-report feedback forms; surveys consistently indicate that participants appreciate having a safe space to share ask questions and find peer support. Advertising for programming is shared on social media among other avenues all of which saw an increase in subscription. Total subscribers are as follows: Facebook (1 540); Instagram (1 847); X (formerly Twitter- 1 117); the EDSNA newsletter (1 598). Outreach and awareness initiatives during this timeframe included Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW) 2024 community presentations and info booths. EDAW 2024 was marked with a social media giveaway and educational content as well as the lighting of provincial landmarks (including four new sites). Community presentations were shared with Alberta Health Services (AHS) addictions treatment teams public school division counsellors and Primary Care Networks (PCNs). Info booths were setup as part of Mental Health Week at varying educational institutions.

Initial funding for a needs assessment will support an environmental scan to inform operational changes in 2024/2025; additional funding received in early 2024 is expected to lead creation of the curriculum for fitness professionals in 2025/2026. This work will be a component of proactive outreach efforts which includes development of new supports for caregivers and the creation of outreach ‘service areas’. EDSNA programming will continue to evolve after a facilitator summit planned for October 2024 . Internal program feedback forms are being revised to better understand the efficacy of programming. Collaborative projects are expected for 2024/2025 including those with the National Committee for EDAW youth-focused initiative 'Kickstand' AHS and other community organizations. Outcomes from initiatives EDSNA supports including the Wicked Bodies toolkit (still awaiting funding) and the study uncovering the economic cost of eating disorders will hopefully be disseminated in subsequent grant years.