Hard Truths, Diabiulimia & Sexuality

In this weeks episode, Han is joined by Actor and Singer, Lawrence Smith.In this weeks podcast, we discuss a whole host of really important topics, and explore things that may sometimes be uncomfortable to discuss. Lawrence was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a child, so he hasn't ever known any difference. With Lawrence, we discuss labels, diabulimia, and the need for protection and support as he had always had his diabetic team. We discuss how eating disorders can be a cry for help, a need for safety, to shrink yourself and show you aren't okay if you can't put it into words - all of these things have negative connotations but are TRUE and shouldn't be seen as a negative. We speak about the work needed to improve the support of those with diabulimia, including education, funding, and the role of professionals. We also have the difficult conversation of using an ED as self harm, the hard truth that you can't blame your eating disorder for your behaviour, and that you have the choice to recovery. Finally, we discuss sexuality and how back tracking to see if different factors may have triggered your ED is difficult because it's happened - how do you know what impact has it had?If you would like to find out more about Lawrence, you can find him on Instagram @lom_smith or check out his website, lomsmith.com.Please not this topic includes sensitive topics that some may find distressing: eating disorder behaviours, misuse of medication, depression, suicidal ideation & thoughts, self-harm. If you require support please reach out to charities such as Diabetes UK, BEAT, First Steps ED or call the Samaritans for support on 116 123.