Recovery is often described as freedom, joy, and relief. But for people who have lived with eating disorders for many years or even decades, the reality is much more complicated. In this episode of Dr. Marianne-Land: An Eating Disorder Recovery Podcast, Dr. Marianne explores why recovery can feel unsafe and why ambivalence is such a common part of the process.

You will hear about how eating disorders become entangled with identity, daily routines, and survival, and why letting go can feel destabilizing even when it is necessary for healing. Dr. Marianne explains how trauma, systemic oppression, sensory sensitivities, and executive functioning struggles can all make recovery feel threatening to the nervous system. She also shares how grief and ambivalence show up in long-term recovery and why both deserve compassion instead of shame.

This episode highlights the importance of trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming, and fat-affirming care, and it offers practical ways to build a sense of safety through sensory supports, executive functioning tools, and pacing change.

Why recovery often feels unsafe instead of freeing

How ambivalence is a normal and intelligent survival response

The role of trauma in making recovery feel threatening

How intersectionality and systemic oppression shape recovery experiences

Why grief is an important but overlooked part of long-term recovery

Sensory and executive functioning strategies that can support safer eating experiences

If this episode resonates with you and you are ready for support, Dr. Marianne Miller offers eating disorder therapy in California, Texas, and Washington, D.C. Her approach is trauma-informed, sensory-attuned, and affirming of neurodivergent and marginalized identities. Learn more and connect with her at drmariannemiller.com.