That's Fit

Some people struggling with eating disorders are finding a new therapy that works: Nourishing others.

Maria Rago, clinical director of an eating disorders program at Linden Oaks Hospital, is credited with this novel treatment approach for patients at her clinic. It works like this: Patients create grocery lists, go shopping, and cook for what Rago calls Real Meals. Essentially, those disgusted by eating prepare meals for large groups, like the homeless, and serve food to those who are suffering in different ways.

"The impact is powerful," says Rago. "They see how lucky they are."

Once, a teen patient burst into tears, afraid to take a bite and a homeless man comforted her. "Everyone ate that night," Rago reports.

Patients who sit down and eat with those in need come to appreciate how they take food for granted, how they deny themselves something central to living. This program allows for a reversal of self-absorption. It gives people a positive purpose. It boosts self-esteem. And it can work for people with other mental health issues too, like depression, anxiety, and alcoholism. Anyone trying to recover from anything can benefit from this type of volunteering.

Not trying to recover? I bet you can still benefit. Whenever you give of yourself, it's healthy.