They believe it is possible to recover fully, making peace with eating and the body. However, healing is a long process and requires a great deal of patience. To combat cultural pressures, recovering individuals need to create their own culture, a safe space in which a new set of values can be defined. One way to accomplish this is through support groups. ANAD sponsors self-help support groups led by recovering individuals.
Support groups reduce the shame and isolation associated with eating disorders.
Group members often exchange telephone numbers and contact each other when they need someone talk to. The Awakening Center hosts two ANAD meetings which are open to anyone with food issues. Another way to counteract popular media messages is by reading magazines which offer alternative images as an ideal. Mode and Radiance magazines feature larger women as models and address political and psychological issues along with fashion tips. As of yet, there are no publications for men featuring a variety of male body types, but perhaps men's magazines will someday follow suit.