Ep. 256 You Are Not a Lost Cause: Atypical Anorexia, Performer Pressure, and Real Recovery — with Kerry Melachouris
Description
In this powerful and moving episode, Dr. Cristina Castagnini welcomes Kerry Melachouris, a former performer turned CCI-certified Eating Disorder Coach and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Kerry brings both lived experience and clinical insight to the table as she shares her decades-long battle with anorexia, bulimia, overexercise, and atypical anorexia—and her journey to full recovery.
Kerry’s story challenges two dangerous myths: that only certain bodies can recover and that if treatment hasn’t “worked,” you’re a lost cause. Through raw honesty and hope, Kerry sheds light on the realities of eating disorders in the performing arts, the trauma that often fuels them, and the systemic barriers patients face when seeking care.
Together, Kerry and Dr. Castagnini unpack the flawed reliance on BMI and “normal labs,” the harmful role of industry pressures, and why primary care providers need more education on identifying eating disorders. Kerry also speaks candidly about her relapses, health consequences, and how she ultimately found lasting recovery and purpose as an advocate and professional helping others.
This conversation is both validating and empowering, proving that recovery is possible at any size, at any stage, and for anyone.
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