Dear Readers,
It’s been getting a little academic on this blog the past few posts, so we thought we’d lighten it up a bit and talk about a new online eating disorder self-help resource that launched recently. It’s called Iceberg, and you’ll find it online at: www.eatingdisorderselfhelp.com.
The website originates out of the Marino Therapy center in Dublin, Ireland, which means there are a few stylistic differences you’ll have to get used to, such as our common nemesis going by the name “eating distress” instead of “eating disorders.” Everything is more subdued and polite in the United Kingdom, even eating disorders, which we know to in fact be brutal and deadly. In a way, it’s a less harmful name, though because one is not stigmatized as “disordered,” i.e. abnormal, but instead considered to be in a heightened state of discomfort.
Another quirky thing about the site is its beautiful homepage image of a very white iceberg, which looks just like a mound of delicious whipped cream. Could this be designed to subliminally attract the eating-disordered community? It doesn’t matter because the content is solid and helpful. I liked the stories of recovery under “tips and inspiration,” and there is information for teachers, coaches and athletes, family and friends. If you want to hear more voices of others battling eating disorders, the moderated posting system might be to your liking. The iceberg, by the way, is supposed to be a metaphor for the way eating disorder symptoms are just the tip of the iceberg, a telltale sign that there are underlying issues at play.
Marcia calls Iceberg the European version of America’s esteemed something-fishy.org, which always bears mentioning and touting. This site has a very good selection of articles by professionals, if you are looking for trustworthy advice. If you are a doctor, it will make you cringe, but there is an exhaustive list of really stupid things doctors have said to patients, too. If you are a doctor just entering the field, this would be a good page to read to avoid damaging future patients. The page even begins with a disclaimer at the top telling doctors no offense was intended by publishing ignorant comments made by medical professionals. It seems that Americans are just as sensitive and polite as our counterparts across the Atlantic.
Take care,
Nancy and Marcia
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