In this episode of Let's Talk, Yvie Jones explores an often-overlooked topic: the experience of body image in people living with disabilities.

To help us understand, Yvie is joined by Juliette McAleer, a writer, researcher and disability advocate from regional Queensland.

Juliette shares how she navigates the complexities of living with physical and psychosocial disabilities, all while recovering from an eating disorder.

Yvie and Juliette discuss how ongoing medical issues, the system of care, and prejudice around difference can impact body image. Juliette shares how she learned to challenge societal standards and cultivate body kindness even when feeling good about her body was especially challenging. She also talks through how allies can better support disabled bodies with genuine inclusivity, understanding, and respect.

Resources:

• Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE)
• Chat online
• Check out the blog about research that looked at body image in women living with disabilities that was supported by Butterfly and conducted by WHISE, Women’s Health in the South East here.

Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here.

Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here.

Production Team:

• Produced by Yvie Jones and Sam Blacker from The Podcast Butler
• Executive Producer: Camilla Becket
• Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation

For more information about this episode, visit www.butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode.

If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counsellors. Remember, it’s OK to seek a second opinion. Recovery is possible with the right support.