I have struggled with anorexia for over two years and this piece is very relatable, especially the last line. Right now, recovery feels impossible, but I also imagine a future full of freedom and independence. I created my own Substack last week called Swimming Through Molasses where I share my own experiences with anorexia and the recovery process as well as opening up the comments for other people to share their stories. I just wanted to comment on how much your piece meant to me as well as asking if you have any feedback for a new writer and young person struggling with an eating disorder.
Reading your work reassures me greatly. Roughly 15 months ago I was discharged from a state psychiatric hospital after several previous stays in private institutions in middle age. I cannot easily say I am 'grateful' for it as such, but this most recent incarceration (I believe my last) caused me to reflect deeply in a way I had never been compelled to, or frankly had time to, before. I am making a way without formal medical care, not because I disbelieve all practitioners but because there are so few trustworthy ones in a broken system increasingly characterised by dogma verging on sophistry, aggressively enforced. Your work reassures, as I say; and it helps sustain.
I am not sure I am worthy of such high praise, but it is very meaningful that my work gives you hope. Recovery is an individual process and most definitely is not the property of the psychiatric profession. I wish you well!
As someone who has been in elevated levels of care, this is brilliant. You and your words are brilliant. Thank you.
Thank you!
I have struggled with anorexia for over two years and this piece is very relatable, especially the last line. Right now, recovery feels impossible, but I also imagine a future full of freedom and independence. I created my own Substack last week called Swimming Through Molasses where I share my own experiences with anorexia and the recovery process as well as opening up the comments for other people to share their stories. I just wanted to comment on how much your piece meant to me as well as asking if you have any feedback for a new writer and young person struggling with an eating disorder.
Wow.
Thank you for this honest essay.
Reading your work reassures me greatly. Roughly 15 months ago I was discharged from a state psychiatric hospital after several previous stays in private institutions in middle age. I cannot easily say I am 'grateful' for it as such, but this most recent incarceration (I believe my last) caused me to reflect deeply in a way I had never been compelled to, or frankly had time to, before. I am making a way without formal medical care, not because I disbelieve all practitioners but because there are so few trustworthy ones in a broken system increasingly characterised by dogma verging on sophistry, aggressively enforced. Your work reassures, as I say; and it helps sustain.
I am not sure I am worthy of such high praise, but it is very meaningful that my work gives you hope. Recovery is an individual process and most definitely is not the property of the psychiatric profession. I wish you well!