Thursday Feb 06, 2025
Courage to Be Seen: Combating Loneliness and Disordered Eating in Female Athletes
Guest: Kate Ringwood, LCPC (she/her)
Profession: Psychotherapist | Eating Disorder Specialist at Serendipity Counseling Services
Overview:
In this episode, we delve into the critical intersection of mental health and eating disorders among female athletes with Kate Ringwood. Drawing from her experiences as both a former athlete and a psychotherapist, Kate provides invaluable insights into the emotional challenges faced by athletes.
Key Discussion Points:
Personal Connection: Kate shares her journey as a former high school and college athlete, offering a unique perspective on the mental and emotional obstacles that athletes encounter.
Eating Disorders in Athletes: Kate emphasizes that eating disorders among athletes are often misunderstood. She highlights that 70% of athletes may struggle with disordered eating, underscoring the importance of normalizing therapy and mental health discussions.
Combatting Loneliness: We discuss how vulnerability plays a crucial role in building connections and overcoming loneliness. Kate stresses the power of letting oneself be seen authentically to foster deeper relationships.
Binge Eating Disorders: Notably, Kate points out that Binge Eating Disorders are among the most common eating disorders in athletes, demonstrating the need for awareness and support.
Creating Safe Spaces: Through virtual counseling, Kate aims to provide a comfortable environment that allows athletes to reach out without the barriers of time or busy schedules.
Tips for Coaches and Caretakers:
Foster a community-oriented approach while also catering to individual needs.
Normalize diverse eating habits by sharing meals and being open to discussions around mental health.
Emphasize that all foods are equal and should not be categorized as good or bad.
Kate's expertise sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health challenges that female athletes face. By fostering open conversations around eating disorders and mental health, we can create a more understanding and supportive environment for athletes.
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