In this week's episode, Han is joined by Fiona Hollings (Fi), an autistic advocate who has nearly recovered from anorexia. Fi shares her journey of navigating an eating disorder while being undiagnosed autistic, the challenges of treatment that wasn't tailored to neurodivergent needs, and how understanding her autism helped her move toward recovery. Together, Han and Fi explore the crucial overlap between autism and eating disorders and discuss how treatment can be adapted to better support autistic individuals.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding the Autism-Anorexia Connection: Exploring why autistic individuals may be more susceptible to developing eating disorders.
• Challenges in Traditional Treatment: Why standard eating disorder treatment often fails autistic individuals and what needs to change.
• The Role of Routine and Sensory Considerations: How structure and sensory adaptations can make recovery more manageable.
• Managing Autism to Aid Recovery: How embracing autistic traits can support a sustainable recovery from an eating disorder.
• The Peace Pathway Approach: How this initiative is revolutionizing eating disorder treatment for autistic individuals.
• Taking Action: How listeners can advocate for better treatment adaptations and find support resources.

Timestamps:

• [03:36] - Fi introduces herself and her journey
• [09:33] - The struggles of being autistic in traditional eating disorder treatment
• [16:12] - The impact of an autism diagnosis on recovery
• [24:01] - Practical strategies for recovery while being autistic
• [35:56] - Understanding the Peace Pathway and its role in improving care
• [42:30] - The importance of individualized treatment for eating disorders
• [46:02] - Where to find Fi online and closing thoughts

Resources & Links:

• The Peace Pathway
• Follow Fi on Instagram (@finding_fi_)
• Connect with Fi on LinkedIn

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses eating disorders and neurodiversity. Please take care while listening. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to a trusted professional or helpline.

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Thank you for listening and being part of this important conversation!