Episode 101: Understanding Atypical Anorexia – The Hidden Struggles

Sorry folks, this episode is audio only, due to a technical fault uploading the video to Spotify. If you really want to see a video version, you can on YouTube at https://youtu.be/TJBNLRnTFcQ

In this episode of Fly to Freedom, I’m addressing a topic that is often misunderstood, invalidated, and overlooked—atypical anorexia.

If you've ever been told, “You don’t look like you have an eating disorder” or felt like you don’t deserve help because you don’t fit the stereotype of anorexia, this episode is for you.

Atypical anorexia is just as severe and life-threatening as anorexia nervosa, yet those who experience it often struggle in silence. I break down the science, misconceptions, and emotional impact of atypical anorexia and share why eating disorders should never be measured by weight alone.

You'll learn:🔹 What atypical anorexia actually is and how it’s defined in the DSM-5
🔹 Why BMI is an outdated and harmful metric for diagnosing eating disorders
🔹 The biological effects of restriction on metabolism, hormones, brain function, and heart health—regardless of weight
🔹 How misconceptions and stereotypes delay diagnosis and prevent people from getting the help they deserve
🔹 The emotional toll of feeling invalidated and how internalised stigma keeps people trapped in the disorder
🔹 The steps towards recovery, including rebuilding body trust, breaking free from restrictive behaviours, and challenging the eating disorder voice
🔹 How self-compassion and self-love play a vital role in healing
🔹 How working with a recovery coach can help you move past harmful beliefs and towards full freedom

If you've been struggling with thoughts like "I'm not sick enough to recover," please know this: your pain is real, your struggles are valid, and you deserve help. Recovery isn’t about weight—it’s about healing your relationship with food, your body, and yourself.

💛 If this episode resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Send me a message or reach out for support. You don’t have to do this alone.

🎧 Listen now: [insert link]

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview
01:06 Defining Atypical Anorexia
02:42 The Biological Impact of Food Restriction
04:38 Misconceptions and Stereotypes
08:48 Emotional and Psychological Toll
21:56 Steps Towards Recovery
30:57 Self-Compassion and Self-Love
33:20 Coaching and Support
34:54 Final Encouragement

📌 Follow for more support and recovery insights:

#AtypicalAnorexia #EatingDisorderRecovery #YouDeserveHelp #MentalHealthMatters #EDAwareness #RecoveryIsPossible #FlyToFreedom