Redefining wellness: peer support in eating disorder recovery

As a Peer Support Worker at Eating Disorders Victoria (EDV), Heather draws on her own lived experience of an eating disorder and recovery to support others to build meaningful lives beyond illness.

One of the biggest misconceptions about eating disorders is that they can be identified by looking at someone’s body or behaviours around food, Heather said.

“Eating disorders don’t have a particular look. Someone can experience an eating disorder at any weight, shape or size."

“Our wellbeing is about much more than how our bodies look or what we eat. It includes our connection to ourselves, our identity and relationships, our happiness and our ability to participate meaningfully in life.”

For Heather, wellbeing means nourishing herself, resting, moving for joy, connecting with others and prioritising what genuinely helps her feel her best.

“I like to focus on how I feel in myself and my body – including my energy, relationships, nourishment, and ability to concentrate – rather than specific targets around weight, food, and exercise” said Heather, “I’ve learnt that health isn’t static; it changes throughout our lives.”

The power of being understood

Heather recalls a participant being amazed that she understood and could relate to the thoughts driven by their eating disorder.

“That moment reminded me of the unique power of peer work and how important it is for people to feel genuinely understood,” she said.

What keeps Heather motivated in her role as a peer worker are the small moments spent with those she's supporting: celebrating progress, sharing a laugh, connecting over common interests and seeing someone recognise their own growth.

Her message to anyone experiencing an eating disorder, or supporting someone who is, is clear: “Recovery is absolutely possible. No matter the duration or severity of someone’s illness, people can build meaningful and fulfilling lives beyond an eating disorder."

“It’s a privilege to walk alongside others, hold hope for them and show that life beyond an eating disorder is possible.”

Find support

If you or someone you care about needs support for an eating disorder or body image concern, contact Eating Disorders Victoria on 1300 550 236. If you are in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).