Eating Disorders Unveiled: A Conversation with Dr. Omara Naseem
Recovery is possible. You can be a healthy weight, you can be overweight. They don't look any one way, and I think that's something that probably shocked a lot of people when the Freddie Flintoff documentary came out.
Emily Andrew sits down with Dr. Omara Naseem, a psychologist and specialist in eating disorders, for an eye-opening discussion on the realities many face. They dive into what eating disorders truly look like and how they're diagnosed, touching on the emotional impact and the importance of understanding these conditions. The conversation takes a personal turn as they reflect on the BBC documentary 'Freddie Flintoff: Living with Bulimia', exploring its significance and the mixed reactions it received online. Dr.
Naseem also sheds light on disordered eating habits prevalent in the fitness industry, where terms like 'cheat days' and fasting are often normalized. The episode doesn't shy away from tough topics, including the barriers faced by ethnic minorities in seeking help and the recent scrutiny of eating disorder services within the NHS. Dr. Naseem explains why these inquests are crucial for securing more investment and improving care.
The pandemic's impact on those struggling with eating disorders is also discussed, highlighting issues like food scarcity and the challenges of adapting to online therapy. Throughout their chat, Dr. Naseem offers practical advice for those supporting someone with an eating disorder, emphasizing that recovery is not just a possibility but a reachable goal. This episode is a must-listen for anyone affected by eating disorders or those who want to better understand and support loved ones going through it.