Entering the Blogosphere

Blogging is one of the newest crazes on the internet. Blogs are basically forums for one or multiple individuals to share their thoughts, advice, and expertise. Some blogs stick to one topic, while others are more like journals. There are blogs on just about every topic—and, yes, that includes eating disorders.

Both reading and writing a blog can be a great recovery source. Advantages of writing a blog include obtaining advice, expressing your feelings, sharing your victories, relating to others, and receiving feedback from your readers. When you read blogs you can receive insights from other people and discover a sense of community. However, some blogs may be triggering or even a part of the "pro ana/mia" movement. Here are some tips for reading and writing eating disorder blogs:

When reading blogs:

• Only read blogs that are uplifting and leave you wanting to recover.
• Do not read blogs that discuss numbers such as weights, calories, amount of exercise, etc.
• Look for blogs written by people who are either recovered or committed to recovery.
• Read blogs that are mindful of their readers and that take care not to trigger or harm.

If in your search you come across a negative blog—one that makes you feel bad, triggers you, or glorifies eating disorders—exit the page right away! Looking at such a page can be mesmerizing and seductive, which is why, before you search for blogs, you must make a firm decision that you will immediately leave at any sign of trouble. Without making such a commitment, you may find yourself engrossed in material that will hinder your recovery.

When writing a blog:

Two good resources about blog-writing are Blogspot and Wordpress. Also, the Gürze website (eatingdisordersbogs.com) has some great author blogs that are all pro-recovery and very informative. If you decide to start your own blog, here are some ideas:

• Be considerate of your readers. Take care to avoid triggers.
• Don't "fat talk." Instead of talking about how fat you feel, write about the real issues and feelings you're dealing with.
• Avoid discussing numbers and behaviors.
• Be committed to recovery.
• Don't glamorize your eating disorder.
• Share recovery tips, victories, and ah-ha! moments.
• Write about life outside your eating disorder. Keep in mind that you are not your eating disorder.
• Be honest, while taking into consideration whether your blog is private (only selected people can read it) or public (anyone can read it). Challenge yourself to be vulnerable, while not revealing something that you will regret.
• Consider using a pseudonym for safety reasons, especially if you are expecting privacy.
• Network with new people.
• Share your blog with real-life friends and let them into your world because they can be a tremendous support.
• Ask questions and request advice. Respond to comments you receive and foster a lively discussion.
• Keep popularity out of blogging. Remember, it takes a long time to build up a readership. More importantly, the benefits derived from blogging are not in how many readers you have.
• Avoid comparisons. Your blog is unique, as is your writing. It needn't be like anyone else's.
• Consider yourself a writer. Anyone who writes is a writer!
• Utilize your right to take up space!

Welcome to the blogosphere! May it be a lively and informative catalyst for your recovery.