Veganism and Eating Disorder Recovery

This book addresses the eating disorder field’s misconceptions about veganism with the goal of realigning the discourse about veganism and non-veganism in eating disorder recovery. Veganism and eating disorders are often associated with one another in the eating disorder field, leading to the widely adopted belief that following the dietary component of veganism may inhibit recovery from an eating disorder. Friedman posits that this belief is founded on an oversimplified view and counters it by exploring the ethical dimensions of veganism. In this book, Friedman looks at ideas perpetuated around veganism and recovery, including the potential harm to vegans prohibited from following veganism in treatment centers. Veganism and Eating Disorder Recovery culminates in a prospective proposal for a "vegan-informed" eating disorder recovery model, which may be adapted for clients’ individual needs. Friedman lays a foundation for an improved discourse on veganism and eating disorders by drawing from a wide range of resources, including academic research, blog posts, eating disorder literature, and anecdotes. This accessible text will appeal to professionals and eating disorder clients alike, enabling them to collaborate under optimal conditions.

Section I: Establishing Where We Are1. My Story: Eating Disorder Treatment and Veganism2. An Uncomfortable Task Ahead3.Public Perception at a Glance4. Recovery Perspectives5. The Importance of Understanding Motivation for Veganism Section II: Vegan Experiences6. Conflating Concepts: Perfectionism, Morality, Freedom7. Veganism’s Traumatic Roots8. Implications of Non-Vegan Eating Disorder Treatment9. Losing Veganism10. Animal Therapy in Non-Vegan Eating Disorder Treatment11. Identity Section III: A Way Forward12. Professionally Considering a Patient’s Veganism13. Working with Ambivalence and Values14. The Therapeutic Alliance15.Co-constructing a Broader Way Forward16. Professional Communication Throughout Different Levels of Care17. Professional Self-Reflective Practice18. Proposing a "Vegan-Informed" Approach

Jenn Friedman, MA, MHC-LP, obtained her counseling master's degree at Goldsmiths, University of London and New York State licensure prerequisites at the University of Buffalo. She provides therapy in New York City.