Body Empowerment Project

Eating disorders pose a significant threat to adolescents in the U.S. with a mortality rate 12 times greater than that of any other psychiatric illness, and high comorbidity rates with anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. However, eating disorders are preventable illnesses, making early intervention a well-positioned but underutilized approach to transform health outcomes for vulnerable youth. Body Empowerment Project stands at the forefront of addressing this disparity through an evidence-based, longitudinal prevention program designed for adolescents aged 12-18.

Our 10-week eating disorder program is centered around the delivery of a research-validated curriculum. Developed in collaboration with pediatric eating disorder experts, the program addresses key risk factors in the development of an eating disorder while building protective factors. Our approach encompasses three main components: building body image and self-esteem, teaching effective coping strategies, and fostering a sense of community among participants to reduce feelings of isolation.