#94: Food Won't "Fix" This: Safety, Community, & Belonging in a Trans Body

What does safety in our body mean? How can we create inner safety, even amidst external barriers? And when we talk about healing our relationship with our body, what does that mean in the context of chronic illness or having a marginalized identity? Our current eating disorder landscape only caters to the young, white, cis, able-bodied archetype. Often, the method for recovery is "just eat more". What is missing from the conversation about body dissatisfaction and disordered eating? A lot. But in a big way, the current narrative leaves out marginalized communities and in particular the prevalence of EDs in trans and gender diverse folks. In this week's episode, I'm joined by Graham, who I connected with over Instagram once upon a time, and who wound up being a friend -- someone I continue to connect with over DMs. Graham tells their body story, including their experience with chronic illness, body dysphoria, and an eating disorder. We cover so much in this episode, including: The impact of chronic illness on embodiment What “managing” a chronic illness is like Social pressures and discrimination Unique factors that lead to EDs in gender diverse people Body image and body dysphoria Puberty and disordered eating Barriers to medical care and treatment Mental health stigma Safety versus happiness in a marginalized body What healing means - and feels like - to Graham Why "eating more" isn't the primary solution to EDs How to keep going amidst stigma and systemic harm Finding community and support that honors your authentic self How our relationships can be a catalyst to healing Showing up for yourself, messy imperfections and all Resources mentioned: @ItsHolly black ass brownie recipe Support the show: Enjoying this podcast? Please support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, community engagement, and access to "Ask Abbie" at Patreon.com/fullplate Transcripts: If you’re looking for transcripts, you can find those on my website, www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/podcast Social media: Find the show on Instagram: @fullplate.podcast Find Abbie on Instagram: @abbieattwoodwellness Group program: Looking for more support and concrete steps to take to heal your relationship with food and your body? Apply for Abbie's next 10-week group program: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/group-coaching Group membership: Already been at this anti-diet culture thing for a while, but want community and continued learning? Apply for Abbie's monthly membership: https://www.abbieattwoodwellness.com/circle-monthly-group Thank you so much to our Patrons for your support of the show! Podcast Cover Photography by Anya McInroy Podcast Editing by Brian Walters This podcast is ad-free and support comes from our Patrons on Patreon: Patreon.com/fullplate This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit abbieattwoodwellness.substack.com/subscribe