How the drive to be perfect is linked to eating disorders

11/25/23 • 29 min

3 Listeners

Aiming for perfect sounds like a good thing, right?

But when perfectionism grows into hurtful self-criticism and unrelenting standards, it can be damaging for your mental health.

And it turns out, perfectionism is linked to an already complex group of mental illnesses.

Today, the role perfectionism plays in eating disorders.

Please take care while listening if this topic is sensitive for you. And if you would like support, the Butterfly Foundation has a national support helpline for body image issues or eating disorders. You can reach them on 1800 33 4673 or head to their website.

Aiming for perfect sounds like a good thing, right?

But when perfectionism grows into hurtful self-criticism and unrelenting standards, it can be damaging for your mental health.

And it turns out, perfectionism is linked to an already complex group of mental illnesses.

Today, the role perfectionism plays in eating disorders.

Previous Episode

Mental illness ran in Meg's family. Suicide forced them to talk about it.

Pulitzer prize finalist Meg Kissinger grew up in the 1960's and 70's, steeped in feelings of shame and guilt about the mental illness that plagued her family.

Now a journalist covering mental health, she's made it her mission to share stories of lost loved ones and the systems that failed them.

This episode explores the topic of suicide. Please take care while listening and don't hesitate to reach out for support if you need it. You can reach Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.