In this week's episode, Han is joined by Dr. Stephen Linacre. Stephen is a Principal Clinical Psychologist in the NHS with extensive experience supporting individuals with eating disorders and neurodiversity. He’s published research, contributed to books, and chairs the trustee board of Freed Beaches, a Nottingham-based charity supporting people with eating disorders.

Having lived through an eating disorder himself, Stephen brings a powerful dual perspective to his clinical work and advocacy, particularly in raising awareness for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).

This week, we discuss:

• Stephen’s lived experience of anorexia nervosa
• Navigating eating disorder recovery alongside Type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsy
• How his personal eating disorder experience shaped his career in clinical psychology
• Introduction to ARFID and the lack of recognition in services
• Key differences between ARFID and anorexia
• The role of neurodiversity and sensory sensitivities in ARFID
• Why misdiagnoses like “fussy eating” are harmful
• Practical advice for clinicians, parents, and carers supporting someone with ARFID

Timestamps:

• 01:42 – Stephen's personal experience of anorexia as a teenage boy
• 05:51 – Living with Type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsy
• 12:00 – Stigma, recovery, and men with EDs
• 16:40 – Introducing ARFID and why services fall short
• 18:28 – ARFID vs. anorexia: why standard treatment may be harmful
• 22:05 – Autism, sensory issues, and ARFID overlaps
• 24:00 – Challenges with diagnosis, language, and access to care
• 27:00 – Advice for parents, carers, and clinicians

Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of anorexia, ARFID, chronic illness, and recovery. Please listen with care.

Resources & Links:

• ARFID & Autism research paper
• Birth complications & eating disorders research paper
• Peace pathway (Autism & eating disorder resources)
• ARFID Awareness UK

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Sending positive beans your way, Han 💛