Over the past several months, we’ve had to make a number of adjustments in the wake of the global pandemic that has put cities in lockdown and encouraged social distancing in very nearly all aspects of life. This has not only changed the way we go about things from day to day but even how we go about seeking out things like support.

Support is a fundamental component for many with body-focused repetitive behaviours as it brings us out of the isolation that our disorders can put us in and make us feel. Living in silence with these issues is often a large part of what exacerbates their negative effects, and having support options is a large part of ending that silence. Whether it’s a support group or a single person to turn to in times of struggle, having those resources to turn to can literally save lives.

At CBSN, we’ve seen firsthand the changes social distancing has had on accessing support as in-person support groups have come to a halt. For groups as regular as the one in Toronto was, that can be a big impact on those who attended. As those with BFRBs ourselves, and those who’ve seen the beauty of having support, it’s vital to us that BFRBers still have options to receive support during social distancing.

With this in mind, social media and the power of technology have become more important than ever. It’s the thread that’s connecting us to our friends and family, and it can be the thread that connects us to support as well.

In-person meetings may have stopped, but we’ve begun meeting again. Video meetings have allowed us to reconnect and in the BFRB community, it is allowing us to have that support experience from afar. CSBN hosted its first online meeting just recently and has a second meeting planned as we strive to fill the void left by social distancing.

Another avenue of support is online groups, such as the many available on Facebook. These hold a special place for me, as it’s where I started with my own journey of learning and healing. It may not be face-to-face, but these support groups afford us each the opportunity to connect with others who get it, who can offer empathy and advice. The Canadian BFRB Support Network also has a private Facebook support group where you can connect with others like you and begin the conversation.

While social distancing may be limiting us in many ways, we won’t allow it to limit our connection to one another. CBSN stands with and for the BFRB community, and we’re here to help you through this.

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Stock photo courtesy of Prateek Katyal on Pexels.