tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4186714349677432888.post6356275104530715021..comments2023-11-03T07:38:42.280-04:00Comments on Dr. Lissak's Treatment Plan: "Fat Talk:" the Startling Column in The New York TimesMatthew Lissak, M.D.http://www.blogger.com/profile/16514567365841630434noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4186714349677432888.post-33550983515699055162013-06-13T15:50:16.228-04:002013-06-13T15:50:16.228-04:00I frequently read Jane Brody’s column, in The New ...I frequently read Jane Brody’s column, in The New York Times. Usually, I finish her articles and sigh, a combined feeling of despair and disgust from the negativity, which she promotes. When I read this article on “fat talk” I was pleased to see such a longstanding, widespread issue addressed, by the likes of Jane Brody. One of my first reactions was, how do persons, meaning the everyday reader of The New York Times, not already realize how destructive and demeaning “fat talk,” is. Then I took a step back; I am in recovery from a long-term eating disorder, anorexia.<br /><br />Women the world over, sadly despise their bodies. We with eating disorders take it much further. Yes, body hatred is ever present; it’s the cycle of self-destruction, sometimes ending in death that sets us, or my past self apart. I am aware of, and partake in Eating Disorder Awareness Week. During this week, I have posted the sorority Delta, Delta, Delta “end the fat talk,” YouTube videos, on my FaceBook wall. I find it so incredibly sad, and pathetic, that as females we bond over shaming our selves, communicating via self - hatred, puts an extremely negative spin on friendship in my mind. I find it even more tragic, when young children, are a part of this world of “fat talk.”<br /><br />Just the other day, I posted a very special picture, of myself, and a women (past therapist/mentor) who has, and still is a big part of my ED treatment and recovery, on my FaceBook page. The comments below the photo were overflowing, from friends in recovery from their own eating disorder, and from friends who have never had an eating disorder. The words of my friends were drawn on love and kindness. One of the comments, word for word is “This is the sweetest, most special thread of beautiful replies!” While attempting to maneuver the complex path of recovery, my wish is that women could bond over words of beauty and kindness, rather then continuing to connect over body loathing. I for one, have a choice in participating in the “fat talk.” If I want any chance in staying in recovery, I have to opt out of the discussion.<br />Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com