When Your Child is in Crisis with guests Kathy & Jeff Long

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 Anorexia5:14 Creating a Guide for Others9:01 Lessons in Acceptance and Support13:24 Understanding Anorexia and Its Challenges14:51 The Importance of Specialized Care17:54 The Need for Support in Treatment21:44 Turning Points in Recovery24:54 The Power of Sharing Stories27:18 Launching Teens4Teens Help29:51 Building a Community for Healing34:15 The Role of Knowledge in Recovery36:11 Strengthening Family Bonds38:03 Kara's Journey Todayconnect with Kathy & Jeff:website: https://www.teens4teenshelp.orgCONNECT WITH THE BONNIE ZUCKERS:Bonnie Zucker Ph.D.(west)website: https://www.bonniezuckerphd.comNewsletter sign-up: https://bonnie-zucker-ph-d.kit.com/d44b57fcdfBonnie Zucker Psy.D. (east)website: https://www.bonniezuckerandassociates.comThe 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.