How disability can impact one's body image - and what you can do

In this episode of Let's Talk, Yvie Jones explores an often-overlooked topic: the experience of body image in people living with disabilities. To help us understand, Yvie is joined by Juliette McAleer, a writer, researcher and disability advocate from regional Queensland. Juliette shares how she navigates the complexities of living with physical and psychosocial disabilities, all while recovering from an eating disorder. Yvie and Juliette discuss how ongoing medical issues, the system of care, and prejudice around difference can impact body image. Juliette shares how she learned to challenge societal standards and cultivate body kindness even when feeling good about her body was especially challenging. She also talks through how allies can better support disabled bodies with genuine inclusivity, understanding, and respect. Resources: Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Chat online Check out the blog about research that looked at body image in women living with disabilities that was supported by Butterfly and conducted by WHISE, Women’s Health in the South East here. Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here. Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here. Production Team: Produced by Yvie Jones and Sam Blacker from The Podcast Butler Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation For more information about this episode, visit www.butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode. If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counsellors. Remember, it’s OK to seek a second opinion. Recovery is possible with the right support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Let's Talk, Evie Jones explores the complex realities of body image among young people, with a focus on the LGBTQIA+ community. Featuring insightful conversations with Finn Sterling, a trans youth advocate; Jeanette Chan, a young, queer lived experience researcher; and Francesca Beilharz, a clinical psychologist, the episode delves into societal pressures, media influences, and personal identities that can shape body perceptions. The guests discuss the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ youth, including issues of dysphoria, access to affirming care, and community influences. They emphasise the importance of inclusive, affirming support and systemic change to foster acceptance, safety, and empowerment for all bodies. Plus, Finn shares how social media can both support and challenge body acceptance. This episode offers vital insights and compassionate advice for anyone navigating body image struggles, especially within traditionally marginalised communities. Resources: Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Chat online For information about Butterfly’s Body Kind Youth Survey that includes findings with LGBTQIA+ youth see here. For resources for the LGBTIQA+ community, including young people, see If you are professional working the LGBTQIA+ youth, there’s a tip sheet for you here. Connect: Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here Production Team: Produced by Yvie Jones and Sam Blacker from The Podcast Butler Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation For more information about this episode, visit www.butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode. If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counsellors. Remember, it's okay to seek a second opinion if you feel misunderstood. Recovery is possible with the right support.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Let's Talk, Yvie Jones delves into the complex journey of eating disorder recovery through the powerful lenses of lived experience. She is joined by TJ, Keely, Beth, and Grace, who share their personal stories and professional insights as they navigate the challenges and breakthroughs associated with eating disorders. TJ opens up about his journey with anorexia and bulimia, highlighting how cultural and gender factors influenced his experience and recovery. Keely reflects on her challenging pathway to recovery, emphasising the importance of reconnecting with loved ones and finding joy in life beyond the eating disorder. Beth provides a unique perspective as a peer support facilitator, revealing the healing power of connection and community in the recovery process. Grace, a clinical program manager at the Butterfly Foundation, discusses the significance of incorporating lived experience into treatment programs, shedding light on the gaps often faced when transitioning from inpatient care to home. Throughout the episode, our guests reinforce that recovery is not a linear process but a continual journey shaped by personal growth, community support, and resilience. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the individual nature of recovery, the importance of representation in mental health services, and practical tips for navigating the path to healing.   Resources: Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Chat online Find professionals screened for their understanding of eating disorders For treatment after in patient care in a hospital or residential treatment centre, see Next Steps. Connect: Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here Production Team: Produced by Yvie Jones and Sam Blacker from The Podcast Butler Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation For more information about this episode, visit www.butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode. If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counsellors. Remember, it's okay to seek a second opinion if you feel misunderstood. Recovery is possible with the right support.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Let's Talk, Yvie Jones engages in a heartfelt conversation about body image and self-acceptance as she speaks with broadcaster Myf Warhurst, research psychologist Professor Navjot Bhullar, endocrinologist Dr. Yvonne Chow, and actor and singer Mia Morrissey. Together, they delve into the complexities of body image in women, and why women are disproportionately impacted by body dissatisfaction and eating disorders. This discussion looks at various areas across a woman’s life span, including Myf's personal journey with aging and relationships, the psychological impact of societal standards as explained by Navjot, and Yvonne's insights on the role of hormones in a woman’s experience of her body over time. Mia shares her own experience with an eating disorder, and how physical health challenges alongside appearance ideals influenced her well-being. In the end, the episode calls for more understanding and kindness towards ourselves and our bodies. For the sake of all women, it’s time to resist toxic social prescriptions by basing our value on the way that we look. Resources: Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Chat online For more information and resources for women go to Butterfly’s dedicated page here. Read the full findings of the Butterfly Foundation and KPMG Appearance Ideals report Find professionals screened for their understanding of eating disorders Download your personalised support script to take to your GP here. Connect: Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here Production Team: Produced by Yvie Jones and Sam Blacker from The Podcast Butler Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation For more information about this episode, visit www.butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode. If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counsellors. Recovery is possible with the right support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Let's Talk, Yvie Jones dives into the hidden costs of body dissatisfaction and appearance-based discrimination in Australia. This discussion centres around the ground breaking "Appearance Ideals" report, commissioned by the Butterfly Foundation, to uncover the societal and economic toll of body image concerns. Joining Yvie are Sarah Squire, Head of Knowledge, Research, and Policy at Butterfly Foundation, Elizabeth Clark, a partner and researcher from KPMG and lived experience advocate Evie Gardiner. Together, they explore the staggering statistics behind body dissatisfaction, the widespread impact of appearance-based discrimination, and the urgent need for policy reform. This episode shares how body dissatisfaction affects over four million Australians, leading to significant mental and physical health challenges, economic strain, and social exclusion. The discussion highlights the role of social and cultural pressures, the financial burden of appearance-related expenses, and the intersectional nature of discrimination affecting diverse communities. Resources:Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Cost of Appearance Ideals: Read the full findings of the Butterfly Foundation and KPMG research. Find a Professional screened for their understanding of body image and eating disorders. Connect:Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here. Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here. Production Team:Produced by Yvie Jones and Sam Blacker from The Podcast Butler Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of our specialist counsellors. Recovery is possible with the right support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this powerful episode of Let’s Talk, we shift the conversation around body-image and eating disorders beyond youth and into midlife and later. Many assume that disordered eating is a struggle faced primarily by teenagers and young adults, but the reality is that body image concerns and eating disorders can persist—or even begin—when you’re older. Yvie is joined by Professor Gemma Sharp – a leading expert in eating disorders and body image at the University of Queensland; Kelly Griffin, who shares his experience as a male with an eating disorder that began at age 40; and Sue Cody, age 55, who experienced a relapse during perimenopause and shares her story of finding support. The conversation covers many topics – including the stigma and misconceptions around eating disorders in older adults, the impact of ageism and cultural narratives on body image, unique challenges in accessing appropriate care later in life and the importance of talking, advocacy, peer support, and ongoing research into this population. Resources: Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Chat online Download your personalised support script to take to your GP here. Find professionals screened for their understanding of eating disorders here. More Resources can be found here Butterfly’s Peer Mentoring Program can be found here The menopause and eating disorders free online course can be found here Register for the free international Consortium for Research in Eating Disorders here (This is open to anyone with an interest in eating disorders research, especially those with a lived experience)  Connect: Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here Production Team: Produced by Yvie Jones and Annette Staglieno from Classic Me Productions Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation For more information about this episode, visit butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Let’s Talk, Yvie sits down with Jackson Rose, Helpline Supervisor at Butterfly Foundation, to explore the hidden risks of New Year’s resolutions. While the desire to improve or change ourselves isn’t inherently problematic, black-and-white thinking about ‘good’ and ‘bad’ behaviours—particularly around food and exercise—can carry serious psychological and physical risks. Jackson shares insights into how societal pressures and rigid resolutions around weight loss and fitness can do more harm than good, offering practical tips on how to recognise and navigate these challenges in the new year. Whether you’re feeling uneasy about your body after the holiday festivities or worried about a loved one, this episode encourages a more balanced, compassionate, and sustainable approach to self-care. Resources:Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE)Chat onlineIf you feel you may be at risk, check out our screening tool here.Find professionals screened for their understanding of eating disorders here.Resources can be found here. ConnectFollow Yvie Jones on Instagram here.Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here. Production Team:Produced by Yvie Jones and Annette Staglieno from Classic Me ProductionsExecutive Producer: Camilla BecketSupported by the Waratah Education FoundationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  In this episode, Yvie explores the challenging issue of body image pressures facing men and, with her guests, examines how toxic standards impact male self-perception. How can men support one another and challenge these harmful expectations to create greater body acceptance and more compassionate spaces for their own bodies and others?  Joining Yvie are:  Konan Masuda, an 18-year-old with lived experience, candidly discusses the pressures young men face from peers, social media, and societal expectations, providing a raw look at how these challenges can shape their self-image.  Brock McLean, a former AFL star, opens up about his battle with bulimia nervosa during and after his career in elite sports. Brock sheds light on the intense pressures athletes face to meet physical and performance ideals, and how acknowledging his vulnerability and seeking help became key to his healing.  Nic Bloom, a mental health first aid trainer and advocate, shares invaluable, actionable advice on identifying body image struggles in men, starting supportive conversations, and breaking through the stigma that often prevents men from seeking help.  This episode explores the cultural and psychological factors driving toxic body standards for men, offering hope, practical strategies, and a call to action aimed at breaking the silence, reshaping ideals, and encouraging men to speak out.  Resources:  Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE)  Chat online  Download your personalised support script to take to your GP here.  Find professionals screened for their understanding of eating disorders here.  Resources can be found here.  Connect:  Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here.  Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here.  Find out more about Konan Masuda.  Find out more about Brock McLean.  Find out more about Nic Bloom.  Production Team:  Produced by Yvie Jones and Annette Staglieno from Classic Me Productions  Executive Producer: Camilla Becket  Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation  If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counselors. Remember, it's okay to seek a second opinion if you feel misunderstood. Recovery is possible with the right support.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of ‘Let’s Talk’, Yvie dives into a meaningful conversation about body image and eating disorders, specifically within multicultural communities. Despite the pervasive nature of eating disorders across backgrounds, unique cultural and linguistic barriers can often amplify the challenges for those seeking support and understanding. Yvie is joined by two courageous women who share their experiences navigating cultural expectations and stigma; the discussion highlights barriers to accessing healthcare and the unique challenges these communities face. Psychologist Anila Azhar from Glebe Point Road Psychology adds insight into the importance of culturally sensitive care, addressing common challenges professionals face in treating diverse patients and offering strategies to improve support for individuals from varied cultural backgrounds. Resources: Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Chat online Download your personalised support script to take to your GP here. Find professionals screened for their understanding of eating disorders here. Additional resources can be found here Connect Follow Yvie Jones on Instagram here Follow Butterfly Foundation on Instagram here Learn more about Anila Azahar and her practice here Production Team: Produced by Yvie Jones and Annette Staglieno from Classic Me Productions Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation For more information about this episode, visit butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode. Next Steps: If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counsellors. Remember, it's okay to seek a second opinion if you feel misunderstood. Recovery is possible with the right support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of "Let's Talk," our new host, Yvie Jones, speaks with Dr. Preeya Alexander about the vital role of General Practitioners (GPs) in supporting patients with body image issues and eating disorders. Dr Preeya shares her unique insights into how GPs can build trust with their patients, collaborate with specialists, and navigate the challenges of treating eating disorders with sensitivity and care. We learn how social media misinformation fueled Dr Preeya’s passion for addressing body image issues and eating disorders and explore the impact of unconscious bias in patient care, plus how GPs can recognise early warning signs by understanding key risk factors and symptoms. Dr Preeya also offers practical advice for GPs on approaching patients who may have eating disorders by using compassionate and culturally sensitive language to build trust. The goal is commitment to their recovery. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Butterfly National Helpline: 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) Free, confidential support from specialist counsellors. Chat online Support Script: Download your personalised support script to take to your GP here. Butterfly Referral Database: Find professionals screened for their understanding of eating disorders here. Follow Dr. Preeya Alexander: Instagram: @doctor.preeya.alexander Follow Yvie Jones: Instagram: @Yvie_Jones Production Team: Produced by Yvie Jones and Annette Staglieno from Classic Me Productions Executive Producer: Camilla Becket Supported by the Waratah Education Foundation For more information about this episode, visit butterfly.org.au/podcast and click through to this episode. Next Steps: If you're concerned about an eating disorder for yourself or someone you care about, please reach out to the Butterfly National Helpline or chat online with one of their specialist counsellors. Remember, it's okay to seek a second opinion if you feel misunderstood. Recovery is possible with the right support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.