Intelligence Squared Hadley Freeman and Bari Weiss on Anorexia
Apr 28, 2023
Bari Weiss, a renowned journalist and editor, engages with Hadley Freeman, who faced anorexia from a young age, sharing her painful but inspiring journey. They explore how societal pressures and personal identity intertwine, discussing the often misunderstood psychological roots of anorexia. The conversation delves into the role of technology in recovery, the crucial link between mental health and eating disorders, and the importance of vulnerability in healing. They also highlight the necessity of finding joy in food and nurturing healthy habits for the next generation.
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Triggering Moment
- Hadley Freeman recounts the triggering moment for her anorexia.
- A classmate's comment about wanting to be "normal" like her made her feel average and boring.
Triggers and Cause
- Triggers themselves don't cause anorexia; they're the culmination of past events and emotional processing.
- Anorexia could have been triggered by anything, as underlying emotional issues are the real cause.
Rapid Spiral
- After the triggering comment, Hadley's eating habits spiraled out of control almost instantly.
- She went from enjoying after-school snacks to rapidly eliminating entire food groups without a conscious plan.
