NEDIC to launch first-in-Canada instant chat helpline
Summary
The National Eating Disorder Information Centre (NEDIC) has announced that, thanks to a $15,000 grant from the Bell Lets Talk Community Fund, it has reached its fundraising goal of $70,000 to support the addition of a web-based instant chat option to its existing helpline services. The cheque was presented at last weeks 6th annual Zest for Life event.NEDICs instant chat, the first service of its kind in Canada, will fill a necessary gap in online mental health services by targeting youth, who have statistically felt more comfortable using instant chat or text options to seek support.For decades, our helpline resource has had a profound impact on the lives of Canadians struggling with eating disorders. The new instant chat feature is the next opportunity for us to remain relevant and accessible to an increasingly tech-savvy demographic, says Suzanne Phillips, NEDIC Program Manager.NEDIC has operated Canadas only toll-free eating disorder helpline for more than 30 years. More than 95 per cent of callers receive appropriate resource referrals during their initial contact with helpline staff, which includes registered dietitians, social workers and counsellors.Eating disorders are wrought with stigma. By extending our services to include instant chat, we are removing barriers to our services and further empowering individuals to discuss their experience and determine their next steps, says Phillips.The instant chat, expected to launch next month, will enable NEDIC to reach an additional 1,200 Canadians each month.In addition to support from the Bell Lets Talk Community Fund, we would like to thank the following organizations and individuals for helping NEDIC raise the funds needed to implement this life-changing service:For more information on NEDIC please visit, nedic.ca.