In this episode, psychologist Josh Spell discusses disordered eating in dance. Josh shares insights into the coping mechanisms behind eating disorders and offers advice for directors, teachers, and friends who suspect someone may be struggling with an eating disorder. 

YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.

YOUR guest co-host is Jennifer Milner, former professional ballet and Broadway dancer and founder of Bodies In:Motion.  

Takeaways

• Dancers, especially those with hypermobility, are at a higher risk for developing eating disorders due to the pressure to achieve a certain body image and the overlap with other mental health issues.
• Eating disorders are often coping mechanisms that provide a sense of control or avoidance of difficult emotions and stressors.
• The dance world's emphasis on perfectionism and sacrifice can contribute to the development of eating disorders.
• It is important for dance studios and companies to have protocols in place for addressing eating disorders and to provide support and resources for dancers.
• If you suspect someone may be struggling with an eating disorder, reach out to a trusted adult or professional for guidance and support.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:30 Introducing Josh Spell

01:36 Prevalence of Eating Disorders in Dancers

03:09 The Relationship Between Hypermobility and Eating Disorders

05:08 Understanding Eating Disorders as Coping Mechanisms

08:00 The Intersection of Eating Disorders and Other Mental Health Issues

10:35 The Impact of Social Media and Diet Culture on Eating Disorders

13:25 Self-Image and Body Standards in the Dance World

16:19 The Influence of Social Media and Zoom on Body Image

20:25 Balancing Sacrifice and Suffering in the Dance World

23:00 The Role of Dance Studios and Companies in Supporting Dancers' Mental Health

27:13 Steps for Directors and Teachers to Take When Suspecting an Eating Disorder

32:47 Steps for Friends and Loved Ones to Take When Suspecting an Eating Disorder

36:31 Steps to Take If You Suspect You Have an Eating Disorder

42:18 Hypermobility Hack: Giving the Eating Disorder a Persona

45:12 Where to Find Josh Spell Online

This important conversation with Josh Spell about disordered eating in dance will leave you feeling more knowledgeable and better equipped to handle difficult situations.  

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.  

Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.      

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓

Resources mentioned during the episode:

Links for show notes:

https://flexiblemindcounseling.org/

https://www.instagram.com/spellbound20/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-spell-msw-licsw-07b17816/

https://www.jennifer-milner.com/

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273.8255

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741; Free crisis support, anywhere in US

Eating Disorder Helpline: Call or text 1.800.931.2237

NEDA – National Eating Disorders Association: www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness: www.nami.org

Project Heal – https://www.theprojectheal.org/

Find an Accredited Registered Dietitian (RDN) – www.eatright.org/find-an-expert

Find a Therapist: www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists

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