Texas Eating Disorders Association

Programs: School-age and community education programs: the elisa project offers free educational programs to schools and community groups throughout north texas. Programs are conducted by the staff of the elisa project and by professional members of our volunteer speakers bureau. Presentations normally cover topics such as healthy lifestyles, sound nutrition, fitness, positive body image and self-esteem, the harmful effects of the media and weight-related bullying and teasing, and where to go for help. Programs are highly interactive and can be adapted easily to meet the needs of specific groups. Parenting programs are offered to ptas and other community groups. Topics for these workshops include raising healthy and resilient children, instilling positive body image, and family relationships. In 2017, the elisa project taught over 15,000 students through these programs.

other activities: other activities of the elisa project include raising awareness about the growing problem of eating disorders, what we as a community can do to help in the fight to eliminate eating disorders, and the programs and resources that are available for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery support. Esteem: a fashion show, an awareness event, brought together local celebrities and community models of all ages, shapes, and sizes to showcase the importance of healthy, balanced lifestyles and celebrate positive body image and self-esteem. We also participate with other organizations and groups to support fat talk free week and national eating disorders awareness walks. In addition, we also support efforts to improve access to care, mental health parity, and increased funding for eating disorder research, surveillance and prevention. In 2017, approximately 31,511 people were served through our programs.

resource and referral helpline and website: the elisa projects resource and referral helpline and website are free, nationwide resources that connect patients and their loved ones to vital information and support, as well as a referral database of eating disorder treatment facilities, health professionals (psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, dietitians, etc. ), support groups, clinical trials, and financial assistance resources. Services are available online and via phone, emails, and in-person visits. Staff and trained volunteers work with each client to identify options that best meet his or her unique needs. In 2017, the elisa project received and handled 372 resource and referral requests. A total of 609 individuals accessed information through our website in 2017.