Food practices, eating distress and the perils of bewildering interventions in ‘eating disorders’ treatment settings

Abstract

‘Mental health policies should address the “power imbalance” rather than “chemical imbalance” … and abandon the predominant medical model that seeks to cure individuals by targeting “disorders”.’ (UN Special Rapporteur, 2017, p.19)‘Co-production requires give and take, an interaction in which participation is more likely to be welcomed and willingly entered into when the ‘objects’ exchanged are words, opinions, ideas, food for thought. However, when the ‘matter in hand’ becomes substantial, in the most literal sense of the word, an actual giving and receiving of food, ready co-operation may come far less easily … To take what has been given, to accept the nourishment offered, is to acknowledge the existence of a need and recognise the legitimacy of the caregiver … In more ways than one, accepting what is needed can be hard to swallow.’ (Anonymous expert by experience, from Adlam et al., 2016)‘This has been a truly collaborative process (rather than the normal “token-istic” nod to Service User involvement). This is reparative and “bridging” – reaching across the chasm between Creon(s) and Antigone(s). I have felt seen, heard and respected (the antithesis, I feel, of my in-patient treatment). In this sense the author has/is practising the “hope” driving this project and creating the beginnings of the collaborative re-imagining he is advocating.’ (Anonymous expert by experience, from Adlam et al., 2014)