In this episode of Behind the Bite, Dr. Cristina Castagnini interviews Mia Findley, founder of Beyond Body and passionate advocate in the fight against eating disorders. Mia shares her personal journey from a decade-long struggle with an eating disorder to recovery and becoming a coach and advocate. She discusses the complexities of eating disorders, the importance of hope in recovery, and her approach to coaching.

Essential Question: How can understanding the complexities of eating disorders and recovery help those struggling find hope and healing?

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Mia's Personal Journey: From childhood body image issues to a six-year battle with an eating disorder, depression, and suicidality.
  2. Recovery Process: The importance of hope, understanding the root causes, and practical approaches to healing.
  3. Complexities of Eating Disorders: Discussion on comorbidities, the interplay between physical and mental health, and the unique nature of each person's struggle.
  4. Advocacy and Support: Mia's work with the Butterfly Foundation and her transition into coaching.
  5. Coaching Approach: Practical, evidence-based strategies focusing on neutrality before positivity.
  6. The Role of Compassion: Developing self-compassion gradually through recovery.
  7. Impact of External Comments: How seemingly innocent remarks about bodies can affect individuals.

IMPORTANT TIMECODES FROM THE EPISODE:

  • 00:00 Introduction to Behind the Bite
  • 00:58 The Power of Sharing Stories
  • 02:48 Meet Mia Findley: Advocate and Survivor
  • 04:33 Mia's Early Struggles with Body Image
  • 06:42 The Turning Point: Seeking Help
  • 08:27 From Personal Recovery to Public Advocacy
  • 14:18 The Impact of Comments on Body Image
  • 19:07 The Hidden Struggles of Eating Disorders
  • 20:45 Addressing Mental Health in Eating Disorder Treatment
  • 26:46 Finding Hope and Direction
  • 27:11 Understanding Childhood Trauma
  • 28:18 The Nuances of Treatment
  • 29:43 Navigating Recovery Challenges
  • 31:54 Practical Approaches to Healing
  • 34:36 The Role of Self-Compassion
  • 41:43 Complexities of Eating Disorders
  • 47:38 Resources and Support
  • 49:04 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

HOW TO CONNECT WITH MIA AND LEARN MORE:

NOTABLE QUOTES FROM THE SHOW:

  • "Nobody chooses to have an eating disorder."
  • "Full recovery is possible."
  • "Recovery has so many gifts, and they're not just specific to recovery. They're lifelong gifts if we can seek them out."
  • "If somebody came to me and said, 'I've recovered perfectly and I am recovering perfectly and it's all easy breezy,' I think we'd be in for a pretty painful conversation."

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST:

Mia emphasizes the importance of hope in recovery, stating that there are many people championing those in recovery, even if they don't know it. She highlights the "unspoken language" among those with lived experience and their constant support for each other.

HOW TO CONNECT WITH US AND LEARN MORE:

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING!

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Until next time, remember, we're here to break down barriers, challenge stigma, and support each other on the path to a better life.

**Disclaimer:**

This podcast is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. It is given with the understanding that neither the host, the publisher, nor the guests are rendering legal, clinical, or other professional information. If you want or need a professional, you should find one to work with who can address your individual needs and situation.

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