How a moderated online discussion forum facilitates support for young people with eating disorders

Abstract

IntroductionYoung people with eating disorders are at risk of harm to their social, emotional and physical development and life chances. Although they can be reluctant to seek help, they may access social media for information, advice or support. The relationship between social media and youth well‐being is an emotive subject, but not clearly understood. This qualitative study aimed to explore how young people used a youth‐orientated, moderated, online, eating disorders discussion forum, run by an eating disorders charity.MethodsWe applied a netnographic approach involving downloading and thematically analysing over 400 messages posted August–November 2012.ResultsData analysis generated five themes: Taking on the role of mentor; the online discussion forum as a safe space; Friendship within the online forum; Flexible help; and Peer support for recovery and relapse prevention. Forum moderation may have influenced the forum culture.DiscussionOur findings are consistent with literature about youth preferences for mental health self‐care support. A young person's decision to use this discussion forum can be construed as pro‐active self‐care. A moderated online discussion forum can make a positive contribution to support for youth with eating disorders, countering negative media perceptions of online groups.ConclusionThis study adds to knowledge about how young people access support via social media. Online discussion forums can be safe and acceptable spaces for youth to access help. Further research could provide insights into the impact of forum moderation.

“I would love to have online support but I don't trust it”: Positive and negative views of technology from the perspective of those with eating disorders in Canada

“…Previous research demonstrates that recovery‐oriented resources often include discussions that are negative (Johnsen, Rosenvinge, & Gammon, ) in language and content that promote pro‐ED ideologies, like the idealisation of thinness (Riley, Rodham, & Gavin, ). Research of recovery‐oriented online message boards and forums recognises the importance of maintaining safety for users through the enforcement of rules and the moderation of content by professionals (Aardoom et al., ; Flynn & Stana, ; Kendal et al., ; Walstrom, ). Despite the issue of safety, participants highlighted that technology which facilitates connection with others, such as texting, e‐mailing and Facebook, can be very helpful while engaging in intensive treatment or supportive group counselling for an ED.…”

“…Most recently, Kendal et al. () studied the use of online moderated forums by youth with EDs. Findings showed that peer support was a primary use of forums.…”

“…When technology is used to support recovery, there can be positive outcomes for those with EDs. Chat rooms and message boards have been found to facilitate support and empowerment for individuals who seek help for their ED (Aardoom, Dingemans, Boogaard, & Van Furth, 2014;Eichhorn, 2008;Kendal, Kirk, Elvey, Catchpole, & Pryjmachuk, 2016;Ransom et al, 2010). A study that incorporated clinical feedback through text messaging into inpatient post-treatment for BN found that remission rates were significantly greater for those using the tool compared with those who were not (Bauer, Okon, Meermann, & Kordy, 2012).…”

Prioritizing young people's emotional health support needs via participatory research

“…, Eichenberg , Kendal et al . ). We conducted the participatory research to understand what solutions young people seek to combat barriers to help‐seeking for emotional and mental health support, such as cost, access, location, emotional competence and life skills (Rickwood et al .…”

Transition Care in Anorexia Nervosa Through Guidance Online from Peer and Carer Expertise (TRIANGLE): Study Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial

“…Given research supporting the utility of moderated and facilitated online discussion forums (Kendal, Kirk, Elvey, Catchpole, & Pryjmachuk, ) and therapeutic chat groups (Zerwas et al, ) for individuals with eating disorders, the ECHOMANTRA intervention offers these as an additional source of peer‐based guidance and support to enhance the use of the workbooks. Finally, we offer families joint sessions with patients, carers and health professionals ( via Skype) to support the transition phase.…”