A Message From Karen Chinca

Dear Nourished Minds Community,

Eating Disorder Awareness Week has ended, but the conversation continues. This year, we focused on treatment disparities—who gets diagnosed, who has access to care, and who is left struggling without support.

We highlighted some of the stark realities:

Weight bias delays or denies treatment for people in larger bodies. • Racial and ethnic disparities mean Black, Indigenous, and Latine individuals are half as likely to receive an eating disorder diagnosis. • Trans and nonbinary individuals experience eating disorders at four times the rate of their cisgender peers, yet treatment often overlooks their unique needs.
Financial barriers keep life-saving treatment out of reach for too many.
Weight stigma itself increases the risk of disordered eating—yet remains deeply embedded in healthcare.

Awareness alone isn't enough—it must lead to action. If you missed our posts, you can find them on our Instagram, and if you or someone you know is seeking support, our team is here.

Here's what else you'll find in this month's newsletter:

Group Support & Connection We're offering two upcoming groups: a Virtual Sober Curious Support Group and a Therapeutic Skills Coaching Group for Adults in Eating Disorder Recovery—see below for details.

Building a Shared Library – In honor of Read Across America Day, our team reflected on the books that have shaped us, both personally and professionally. We're sharing our list as a resource, offering everything from fiction favorites to insightful reads on mental health and recovery.
Expanding Understanding Through Metaphors – This month's blog explores the power of metaphors in therapy, from the "bee metaphor" to other ways of externalizing thoughts and emotions.
A Mental Health Moment - Our latest infographic breaks down the bee metaphor, a tool for shifting how we engage with intrusive thoughts.