The patient’s story holds a lesson for all

The patient’s story holds a lesson for all

The patient’s story holds a lesson for all

Professor Ulrike Schmidt, June, Professor Janet Treasure_NY AED ICED 2014–planning 2nd edition of Getting Better Bite by Bite.

When I tentatively ‘came out’, after 40-plus years confined to a prison in the mind, I discovered many benefits in sharing my story in supportive and safe environments. The biggest reward was self-belief…a life essential that had been quashed by my eating disorder, and by the stigma and shame that goes with it. It has led to seven books, candidature in a PhD and this article.
To know that someone believes in you, the Real You, is the best possible self-affirming medicine. Patient-centred care is increasing, and for many good reasons. Researchers and clinicians know that when they listen to the patient, they learn clues about how to understand the illness and how to provide solutions. It’s a win-win situation — we help them and they help us. More than this, together we help others.

This post is particularly for people affected by an eating disorder and who are feeling alone in their struggles. I encourage you to reach out in a supportive environment and share your story. I want you to know you are not alone in how you think and feel,  that there is indeed, hope and help available, and that your life, your story, does count. You can get better, bite by bite, and allow True You to shine through.

Start Right Now

Are you a clinician, carer or former patient or client with experience of an inpatient eating disorder service? If so, click on this link to find out how the sharing  of your experience can help improve eating disorder treatment services for others.  This new research, from Curtin University in Western Australia, seeks participants worldwide. Your voice counts!

June Alexander

About June Alexander

All articles by June Alexander

As founder of Life Stories Diary my prime motivation is to connect with people who want to share their story. Why? Because your story is important. My goal with this blog is to provide a platform for you to share your story with others. Building on the accomplishments of The Diary Healer the Life Stories Diary blog will continue to be a voice for people who have experienced an eating disorder, trauma or other mental health challenge, and provide inspiration through the narrative, to live a full and meaningful life.

My nine books about eating disorders focus on learning through story-sharing. Prior to writing books, which include my memoir, I had a long career in print journalism. In 2017, I graduated as a Doctor of Philosophy (Creative Writing), researching the usefulness of journaling and writing when recovering from an eating disorder or other traumatic experience.
Today I combine my writing expertise with life experience to help others self-heal. Clients receive mentoring in narrative techniques and guidance in memoir-writing. I also share my editing expertise with people who are writing their story and wish to prepare it to publication standard. I encourage everyone to write their story. Your story counts!
Contact me: Email june@junealexander.com and on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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