Recovery Talk

In this episode I am joined by Tanya (@tanyathedesigner), a London-based UX designer specialised in ethical design, to discuss the complicated ethics of social media and vulnerable groups, such as those with eating disorders. We discuss My Fitness Pal, the 'infinite scroll', and wether or not companies have a responsibility to design with so-called 'abusers' in minds. For more, check out Tanya's podcast 'Design Chit Chat' or follow her on Instagram at @tanyathedesigner. 

In this episode I explain the concept of water retention in recovery from an eating disorder - what it is, why it happens, how to tell you experience it and how not to freak out.

In this episode I explain The Unicorn Syndrome, and why you are not a unicorn (but a regular horse instead). I touch upon common Unicorn Syndrome manifestations, and why this phenomena happens in the first place. Additionally, I talk about eating disorders and complex co-morbidities. 

What does it mean when you miss the eating disorder? In today's episode I talk about a common but taboo topic; missing being sick, and romanticising having an eating disorder (both by yourself and by society at large). The aim of the episode is to offer some perspective and reality checks, and provide some helpful tasks to do when the nostalgia hits.

In this episode I am introducing you to Ancel Keys' Minnesota Starvation Study, a study that completely revolutionised how I view and approach eating disorders, and changed the trajectory in my own recovery many years ago. 

Does an eating disorder permanently damage metabolism? How do you speed things up? In this episode I explain the basics of human metabolism and how it adapts to restriction - and adjusts to recovery. 

What is set point weight and why does it matter in recovery? Discover how dieting myths can distort our understanding of weight during recovery. Learn why BMI might not be the best measure and the importance of focusing on individual weight ranges. The conversation encourages a positive outlook on gaining weight, while emphasizing patience and professional support. It’s a deep dive into the nuanced journey of understanding your body during recovery, helping to redefine what wellness looks like.

January and the New Year's period is high season for diet culture BS, and can be quite triggering from those attempting recovery from an ED. In this episode I try to offer some helpful reminders and perspectives for how to handle it.

What is self care, and how can you apply it to your everyday life and recovery? In today's episode I talk about how self-care looks different from everyone, steps to take when caring for yourself is difficult and what plants (and The Sims) can teach us about taking care of ourselves.

The conversation dives into the unique challenges Christmas presents for those with eating disorders, offering practical advice for navigating family dynamics and avoiding negative diet talk. It tackles the complexities of interacting with emotionally immature parents and emphasizes the need for self-care during the holiday season. Strategies for focusing on personal recovery, setting boundaries, and cultivating meaningful connections are shared. Clear communication and actionable support in the recovery journey are underscored as essential for well-being.