A Parent's Experience of Supporting her Daughter with Anorexia Nervosa, with Linda Åkerlund

Today I’m talking to Linda Åkerlund, all the way from Sweden. Linda is the mother of two girls, who today are 18 and 21 years old.  In January 2021, Linda’s youngest daughter was diagnosed with anorexia nervosa. Her recovery journey then lasted for about 2 1/2 years, although she had been ill for about a year before her diagnosis (from aged 13). I think that this is not unusual that eating disorders can often be hidden and it can take time for loved ones to become aware. Linda’s daughter’s treatment model was family-based treatment, which thankfully proved to be an effective approach in this situation. But as a parent with no medical knowledge, understandably, Linda found this situation to be a significant struggle and very overwhelming.  Thankfully, Linda’s daughter has made a full recovery, and her mission is to inspire others through this recovery journey and to particularly underline and talk about the importance of taking care of yourself as a parent, when your child is very unwell. In the episode today, Linda shares about her experience as a mother supporting her daughter, offering encouragement and support to others in this situation. I hope that you find it helpful.   To get in touch with Linda, please email: [email protected]   This week's sponsor: WeShape https://www.weshape.com/freedom   Harriet Frew's current offers: - Online 10 Steps to Intuitive Eating Course https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/online-courses.html Online Breaking Free from Bulimia – 20% off with code FREEDOM at checkout https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/online-courses.html  Eating Disorders Training for Professionals https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/eating-disorders-training-with-harriet-frew.html Body Image Training for Professionals https://www.theeatingdisordertherapist.co.uk/body-image-training-with-harriet-frew.html