Origin of the name “Buddy System”

The idea of Buddy System is inspired by the practice that we learn as children. When we go out into the world, we utilize the Buddy System. We have someone to keep an eye on us, and someone who we keep an eye on. When we use the Buddy System we are not alone, and nobody gets left behind.

What is Buddy System?

Buddy System is a free peer-to-peer support program for adolescents with an eating disorder. Each pair of “buddies” includes one individual actively struggling with an eating disorder (mentee), and another individual who self-identifies as a veteran of recovery for that specific eating disorder (mentor). The purpose of the mentor is to provide non-professional personal anecdotes, niche insights, empathy, companionship, and hope. Eating disorders can be extremely isolating and lonely, and having an individual who has volunteered their time to supporting you in your recovery journey is a very special opportunity. It is crucial to note, however, that Buddy System is NOT a substitute to medical/professional help. Eating disorders require medical/professional help, and Buddy System is meant to be an additional emotional outlet.

The partnerships are curated once applications are received and reviewed, and then mentor/mentee matching will take place and an introduction will be made. There is no expectation on frequency or length of conversations, but there is an understanding that they will take place. If a mentor/mentee connection is not comfortable for either party and there is a desire for a change, please contact us and we will find a better fit. Buddy System does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations.

All information shared and learned via the Buddy relationship is kept confidential. The only exception would be in the case that one party has reason to believe that the other is in danger, and that the information that was shared during their session is outside the scope of the responsibility for this program.

What is the Buddy System Community?

Buddy System strives to create a supportive, inclusive community that warmly embraces individuals with diverse experiences in the eating disorder realm. Although the partnerships are exclusive to individuals who have/had an eating disorder, the community is not. One of the main goals of Buddy System’s mission is to destigmatize eating disorders and educate others on the severity of these mental illnesses. Anyone who is interested in learning more about how to support an individual with an eating disorder, is passionate about spreading awareness of the severity of these mental illnesses, and wants to show their support is more than welcome to be a part of this community. In the “Forum”, “Resources”, and “Get Involved” pages you will be able to find ways to become an active member of the community.