The discourse presented in this podcast episode centers on the intricate relationship between disordered eating and the challenges faced by LGBTQ youth during the holiday season. A significant focus is placed on the psychological implications of these struggles, particularly as they pertain to identity formation and societal pressures. Our esteemed guest, Dr. Theresa Bussert, offers invaluable insights into navigating disordered eating behaviors with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying thoughts and feelings that accompany such challenges. We explore the complexities of familial support and the necessity of creating a safe space for dialogue, particularly in the context of the upcoming holidays, which can exacerbate stress for many individuals. Ultimately, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of the need for empathy and awareness as we endeavor to support our loved ones grappling with these significant issues.

What are disordered eating and eating disorders? Dr. Bussert shares with us the difference between disordered eating and eating disorders, and the best ways to support a person who is struggling with either one. Dr. Bussert is a therapist, coach, educator, and advocate for people looking to live beyond their eating disorders. She shares with us just how the spectrum of disordered eating and eating disorders can start and how the most important tool to healing is separating the person from the disorder. Join us as we discuss how to spot signs of eating disorders, how to best support a loved one suffering from eating disorders, and that there is life beyond your disorder.

Takeaways:

• The upcoming holiday season introduces various stressors, particularly for those managing disordered eating.
• Dr. Teresa Bussert offers invaluable insights into the complexities of eating disorders and their impact on individuals.
• It is essential to differentiate between disordered eating and eating disorders, as they exist on a continuum.
• Supporting a loved one with disordered eating requires a focus on their emotional well-being rather than solely on their eating behaviors.
• Acknowledging the importance of community and support is crucial for individuals navigating their identity and eating challenges.
• Parents and caregivers must create a safe space for their children to express their feelings about food and identity.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• National Eating Disorder Association
• Trevor Foundation

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

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At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ+ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and foster courageous, compassionate connection.

If you’re in the thick of parenting, allyship, or pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heart-warming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.

Whether you’re listening in, working with me directly, or quietly taking it all in—I see you. And I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.

 

NEDA https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

ANAD https://anad.org/

Ways to connect with Dr. Theresa Bussert:

Website: Theresabussert.com

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @TheresaBussertPsyD

Instagram: @theresabussert

More Human. More Kind. formerly Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen is a safe and supportive space where a mom and mental health advocate offers guidance on parenting with empathy, inclusion, love, and open-minded allyship, fostering growth, healing, connection, and empowerment within the LGBTQ community while addressing grief, boundaries, education, diversity, human rights, social justice, and the power of human kindness through a lens of ally support and community engagement.

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