In this inspiring episode of Anxiety Matters, the Bonnies welcome Kathy and Jeff Long, co-authors of "A Parent's Guide to Anorexia." Kathy and Jeff share their deeply personal journey as parents grappling with their daughter’s unexpected anorexia diagnosis during her ninth-grade year.

The Longs recount their emotional struggles and the critical role of support systems, both for their family and others in similar situations. They discuss the importance of community and peer support in recovery, alongside the gaps in treatment resources they encountered. Their guidebook serves as a crucial tool for families, embodying the knowledge they wish they had.

The Longs also introduce their nonprofit, Teens4Teens Help, aimed at connecting teens and providing authentic narratives to foster understanding and support. Throughout their conversation, the Longs highlight the transformative power of storytelling and community in the recovery process, illustrating the resilience of families facing mental health challenges.

HIGHLIGHTS:

3:29 The Longs' Journey with Anorexia

5:14 Creating a Guide for Others

9:01 Lessons in Acceptance and Support

13:24 Understanding Anorexia and Its Challenges

14:51 The Importance of Specialized Care

17:54 The Need for Support in Treatment

21:44 Turning Points in Recovery

24:54 The Power of Sharing Stories

27:18 Launching Teens4Teens Help

29:51 Building a Community for Healing

34:15 The Role of Knowledge in Recovery

36:11 Strengthening Family Bonds

38:03 Kara's Journey Today

connect with Kathy & Jeff:

website: https://www.teens4teenshelp.org

CONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:

Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west)

website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.com

Newsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdf

Bonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east)

website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.com

The content of Anxiety Matters Podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute mental health or medical advice, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, call emergency services or a local crisis line.