Research has shown that eating disorders are especially common in LGBTQ communities. Transgender and gender-expansive people are at particular risk. This can be due to a number of factors, including LGBTQ body image ideals, stigma and marginalization, past traumas and body/gender incongruence. It is important for members of the LGBTQ community to have a safe space to work on eating disorders and to feel affirmed in their identities.

Eating disorders can occur at any age. For example, teens and young adults may develop eating disorders when exploring the initial stages of sexual and gender identification. Adults may be at a time in their life where they feel more free to explore who they are but may struggle with leaving behind old roles.

Gender/body dysphoria is often a factor in people who are gender expansive. Gender/body dysphoria represents the distress of living in a body that is incongruent with internal gender identity, frequently coinciding with the desire to change the body and with dissonance from gendered features (e.g., chest dysphoria, hip dysphoria, or voice dysphoria).

Affirming services

While many providers offer eating disorder services, the key to recovery is in finding open and affirming services. Dr. Dalzell will:

1. •Foster an environment in which clients feel respected in the uniqueness of their gender identities
   

2. •Value body diversity and expression
   

3. •Understand that gender is multidimensional, not binary
   

4. •Recognize sources of sexual, gender, and body privilege
   

5. •Provide clients with space and reassurance to take their own journeys, without an outcome in mind
   

If you are struggling with an eating disorder, please contact Dr. Dalzell to schedule a confidential assessment.