What do you think when you hear "eating disorder?" Probably 'bored rich white women obsessed with being skinny'. But anorexia & bulimia are way more than just striving to be beautiful - and they can also affect people from any background. Mostly, they're about control. In the throes of the lonely and aggressively over-indulgent holiday season, this topic felt pertinent to explore.
Our anonymous contributors detail wanting to exert control over their bodies as a way of grappling with the lack of it they have over mental illness (diagnosed or not), familial dysfunction, abusive partners, sexual trauma, addiction, and sky-high expectations. They describe the harsh realities of starving and binging, throwing and giving up, lying to people they love, and sacrificing personal relationships. Some are in recovery; others are still struggling. All are very blunt, and very brave.
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Tales of Taboo is produced and narrated by Ali Weiss. Follow Ali on Instagram & TikTok @aliweissworld. Audio production by Zoe Kuhlkin. Theme song by Chris Stathopolous. Cover photo by Erika Flynn. Cover art by Kristen Montenegro. GOT A SECRET TO GET OFF YOUR CHEST? Share your own confession - or thoughts and feedback - at confessions@aliweissworld.com.
