Background: Eating Disorders are relatively common illnesses that confer considerable risk to individuals’ mental and physical health, with impacts across almost all bodily systems and increased risk of mortality. Long wait times for Eating Disorder treatment present a significant challenge, often exacerbating symptoms and increasing distress. Wait times for treatment are a particular concern for people awaiting Eating Disorder treatment, compared to other mental health concerns, due to high rates of denial of illness and ambivalence about recovery. The waiting period, therefore represents a critical opportunity for both early intervention and strategies that aim to enhance motivation for treatment. Without such efforts, many individuals who require treatment will fall between the cracks – failing to progress from the waitlist to receiving care and thereby prolonging their suffering. Low-intensity digital interventions offer an accessible, scalable solution to support individuals while they await specialist care, potentially improving outcomes and enhancing treatment motivation and readiness. However, few services are currently offering these approaches.

Objective: This presentation will explore the potential of low-intensity digital interventions to mitigate symptom deterioration and enhance coping strategies during the pre-treatment phase, and to retain people in intervention when the step across to in-person treatment is offered. We will discuss evidence-based approaches, implementation challenges, and key considerations for integrating digital interventions into the existing care pathway for Eating Disorders. Our aim is that attendees leave the session feeling informed and motivated to embed evidence-based, low-intensity, digital interventions into their services’ waitlists.

Methods and Findings: Drawing on recent research and pilot studies, we will highlight how digital interventions have been used effectively in mental health care and their specific applications for Eating Disorder populations. We will present data on user engagement, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness, demonstrating how these interventions can reduce distress, promote self-management, and maintain motivation during the waiting period. Additionally, we will discuss stakeholder perspectives, including the needs and preferences of service users, clinicians, and researchers.

Conclusion: Low-intensity digital interventions represent a promising strategy to bridge the gap in Eating Disorder care, addressing the unmet needs of individuals facing long wait times for treatment they may already be ambivalent about accessing. By providing accessible, evidence-based support, these interventions have the potential to improve treatment outcomes and enhance overall care pathways. Our presentation will offer practical insights for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers interested in integrating digital solutions into Eating Disorder services.