Common Myths About Specialist Eating Disorder Supported Living Services
When you start to look into suitable supported living services for someone who is living with an eating disorder, there’s no denying that there are a lot of factors to consider.
You’ll have questions, worries, and concerns, and you’ll no doubt be looking for answers that can help you to be confident that you’re making the very best choice.
Something that’s important to be mindful of is the fact that there are many myths out there about what supported living services are really like. Here, we’ll take a look at some common misconceptions, and explain more about the truth behind them…
MYTH #1: Service users will feel like they’ve been institutionalised
When many people think about mental health facilities, they recall images they’re familiar with from films or TV shows. These are often wildly inaccurate, and bear very little resemblance to what happens in the real world.
In reality, supported living facilities are comfortable, welcoming, and positive spaces to facilitate recovery. In the right service, individuals will be encouraged to feel relaxed, calm, and heard. They’ll be given the tools they need to play an active role in their recovery plan, and will be informed and empowered every step of the way. It’s a far cry from the image that many people imagine! At Prosperity Housing Group we pride ourselves in the homely environment that we create.
MYTH #2: It’s better for those with eating disorders to continue to live at home
It’s true that living in a supported living service can seem like a huge step. For many though, it’s the change they really need to be able to engage with a recovery plan and be able to make positive progress.
A different environment can help to break destructive habits and behaviours. It can also ensure that professional guidance and support is available whenever it’s needed. It’s worth noting that a supported living service can have a positive impact on the whole family, including the parents of the individual. It’s just as important that they get the support they need too on this journey.
MYTH #3:Supported living doesn’t provide tailored care for the individual
Every eating disorder is different, and there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to recovery. As such, the best supported living services will never offer an off-the-shelf solution. In fact, it’s the nature of live-in services that more attention can be paid to individual needs.
Dedicated professionals will carry out an initial assessment that takes into account a massive range of factors, from medical history to the behaviours and struggles that the individual is currently contending with. The recovery plan will be reviewed at key stages along the journey, and changes made wherever necessary. In any eating disorder supported living service, it’s highly likely that every service user will have completely different care plans at any given time.
Yes, whilst eating disorders can be a challenge, the good news is, recovery is possible. We never put a time stamp on it, because every individual will be on their own personal journey. We hope that with your recovery will be easier and more importantly never alone.
If you’ve got any questions about what you can really expect from our supported living service, our team is on hand to help and ensure you have all the details you need before making a decision around your next steps.
Please contact us if you have any queries at info@prosperityhousinggroup.co.uk
or call us on 03337729464
