Raising the Profile of ARFID Through Clinical Insight with Dr. Stephen Linacre
Description
In this week's episode, Han is joined by Dr. Stephen Linacre. Stephen is a Principal Clinical Psychologist in the NHS with extensive experience supporting individuals with eating disorders and neurodiversity. He’s published research, contributed to books, and chairs the trustee board of Freed Beaches, a Nottingham-based charity supporting people with eating disorders.
Having lived through an eating disorder himself, Stephen brings a powerful dual perspective to his clinical work and advocacy, particularly in raising awareness for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
This week, we discuss:
- Stephen’s lived experience of anorexia nervosa
- Navigating eating disorder recovery alongside Type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsy
- How his personal eating disorder experience shaped his career in clinical psychology
- Introduction to ARFID and the lack of recognition in services
- Key differences between ARFID and anorexia
- The role of neurodiversity and sensory sensitivities in ARFID
- Why misdiagnoses like “fussy eating” are harmful
- Practical advice for clinicians, parents, and carers supporting someone with ARFID
Timestamps:
- 01:42 – Stephen's personal experience of anorexia as a teenage boy
- 05:51 – Living with Type 1 diabetes and cerebral palsy
- 12:00 – Stigma, recovery, and men with EDs
- 16:40 – Introducing ARFID and why services fall short
- 18:28 – ARFID vs. anorexia: why standard treatment may be harmful
- 22:05 – Autism, sensory issues, and ARFID overlaps
- 24:00 – Challenges with diagnosis, language, and access to care
- 27:00 – Advice for parents, carers, and clinicians
Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of anorexia, ARFID, chronic illness, and recovery. Please listen with care.
Resources & Links:
- ARFID & Autism research paper
- Birth complications & eating disorders research paper
- Peace pathway (Autism & eating disorder resources)
- ARFID Awareness UK
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Sending positive beans your way, Han 💛