Eating disorders are serious, complex mental health conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, body size, or socioeconomic background. For behavioral health providers, understanding these illnesses is crucial for early identification, effective intervention, and compassionate care. This webinar provides an engaging, evidence-informed introduction to the fundamentals of eating disorders, equipping professionals with the knowledge and confidence to support individuals at risk.

This session begins by defining what eating disorders are and dispelling common myths and misconceptions that often delay diagnosis and treatment. Participants will gain a foundational understanding of the major eating disorder diagnoses, including Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), and Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED). The presentation also explores the growing recognition of disordered eating behaviors that may not meet full diagnostic criteria but still warrant clinical attention.

Attendees will learn about the prevalence and impact of eating disorders across populations, emphasizing that these illnesses affect people of all genders, ages, races, and body types. The discussion highlights how weight stigma, cultural ideals, trauma, and co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or substance use can increase vulnerability. Providers will be encouraged to examine implicit biases that can interfere with detection and treatment, particularly among individuals in larger bodies, males, LGBTQIA+ populations, and communities historically underrepresented in eating disorder research and care.

The presentation covers key behavioral, physical, and emotional warning signs that may signal the presence of an eating disorder. Participants will learn how to recognize subtle indicators such as perfectionism, rigidity around food or exercise, changes in mood, social withdrawal, or excessive body checking—alongside more visible signs like weight fluctuations, gastrointestinal distress, or disrupted eating patterns.

Moving from identification to intervention, the session explores current evidence-based treatment approaches and how behavioral health providers can play a role in early support and referral. An overview of leading psychotherapeutic interventions, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family-Based Treatment (FBT), and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), is provided, along with an introduction to psychopharmacological interventions. Participants will also be introduced to promising and emerging therapies supported by growing research, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and exposure-based interventions.

Beyond clinical treatment, this webinar emphasizes the importance of communication and compassion. Providers will learn how to approach sensitive conversations about food, weight, and body image without judgment or stigma. The session offers practical guidance on how to express concern, encourage help-seeking, and respond to disclosures in ways that build trust and connection. Attendees will also gain insight into what to avoid—such as reinforcing diet culture messages, making assumptions about appearance, or focusing on weight-based outcomes.

Finally, the presentation concludes with a review of resources and next steps available through NEDA. This includes the NEDA online screening tool, Grace Holland Cozine Resource Center, and treatment directory. By the end of the session, participants will leave with an increased understanding of:

• What eating disorders are and how they manifest across diverse populations
• The major diagnostic categories and subclinical disordered behaviors
• Risk factors, warning signs, and co-occurring conditions
• Current and emerging evidence-based treatments and psychopharmacological options
• Practical tools for compassionate and effective conversations
• Strategies for supporting early intervention and referral
• Resources for patients, families, and providers

This webinar is designed to empower behavioral health providers to play a critical role in identifying and supporting those affected by these life-threatening illnesses. Whether you work in a clinical, educational, or community setting, this session will enhance your ability to recognize the signs, respond with empathy, and connect individuals to the care they need to begin healing.