Our History
The historical context of the ‘Eating Disorders Association Incorporated’ (EDA Inc) began in 1993 when the Queensland Association for Mental Health established a support group for carers of people suffering eating disorders. This group was established through the voice of public demand for information and advice about these illnesses. In 1994 a decision was made by the group to lobby Queensland Health for funding to establish an Eating Disorders Resource Centre.
In 1995 the Queensland Mental Health held a forum seeking recommendations from all focus groups. One of these recommendations was the establishment of a resource centre. In 1996 EDA Inc received government funding which aided in the establishment and incorporation of the Eating Disorders Association Resource Centre (EDARC). This funding was approved and granted under the provision that the Eating Disorder Association and Resource Centre would provide support and a referral service for people with eating disorders in Queensland. The Queensland Minister for Health opened the centre in April 1996.
Our Mission
The EDA Inc (Qld) aims to improve the intervention, education and support for all people affected by eating disorders, to raise community awareness about the prevalence and seriousness of these disorders, and to work toward the prevention of eating disorders in our society.
Our Philosophy
The EDA Inc (Qld) is a non-discriminatory and non-profit organisation which believes in providing a service to people of different ages, gender and cultures.
This Association holds the belief that eating disorders are complex, multi-faceted illnesses which require a multi-dimensional approach to care and support.
We believe that people with eating disorders and their families should be treated with compassion and dignity and should be included in all levels of service.
The EDA Inc (Qld) believes in the acceptance of all body types and sizes, and the value of people as whole beings.
Information and Referral
The Eating Disorders Resource Centre provides a 9am to 4pm information, support and referral service. We can send you our Information Pack and other printed material by post and offer access to a comprehensive service directory for Queensland. We offer support and short-term telephone counselling. We can also put you in touch with other services pertaining to identified issues. Our directory includes therapists and other professionals with specialist knowledge in the treatment and support of people with eating disorders.
Resources
EDA offers numerous resources including fact sheets, previous newsletters (Through the Looking Glass) and information booklets. Please contact us for further information.
Numbers to call after hours if you have an immediate need of crisis counselling:
Lifeline: 131114
Kids Helpline: 1800 551800
Parentline: 1300 301300
During business hours you can also call ISIS, Centre for Women's Action on Eating Disorders, on 3844 6055.
and for carer's counselling ARAFMI (The Association of Relatives and Friends of the Mentally Ill): 07 3254 1881
Support Group Resource Kit
The resource kit has been developed to assist health professionals, groups or individuals in establishing and maintaining a healthy support group for people affected by eating disorders. You can download a copy for free here, or if you would prefer a hard copy, this is available from us at a cost of $35.00.
The information contained in the resource kit includes:
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How to use the resource kit;
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Information and the self-help/support group project;
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Information about Eating Disorders;
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A review of the literature and issues associated with
Eating Disorders; -
A guide to establishing and maintaining healthy support groups for people affected by an eating disorder;
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Brochures;
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Training package for facilitators of support groups for people affected by an eating disorder
Susan Hunt was the project worker and has done a fantastic job in developing this invaluable resource kit. For further information about obtaining a copy of this resource kit please call the EDA on 3394 3661.
click here for pdf version of Support groups resource kit
This is a large file & will take a while to download
Newsletter
The Eating Disorders Resource Centre produces a monthly newsletter, with articles written by people who have recovered from eating disorders and by professionals in the field. The newsletter, Through the Looking Glass, is mailed or emailed to EDA members (see "How to Join"
If you are interested in submitting an article, poem or artwork, contact the EDA on 3394 3661, for further information and to obtain a copy of the newsletter contribution submission form.
Library
The Eating Disorders Resource Centre has a comprehensive library of books, videos and other publications on Eating Disorders and social, relationship, family and medical issues. We also have a comprehensive collection of articles from a variety of Journals. Books and videos may be viewed at the centre or borrowed by members. All library resources have been purchased from public donations and any contributions would be greatly appreciated. Donations to the Eating Disorders Association Inc (Qld) of over $2 are tax deductible.
Where and When?
We are open 9.00a.m. to 4.00p.m. Monday to Friday
We are situated at 12 Chatsworth Rd, Greenslopes, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, 4120.
We recommend you phone us prior to visiting, just in case we are with other clients.
Call (07) 3394 3661