9. unpacking perfectionism, control, & anxious attachments in relation to eating disorders with Morgan Hannaleck

There are a few reasons why perfectionism and the need for control show so often in all types of eating disorders.

In this episode, join Kait and episode guest, Morgan Hannaleck, as they explore the deep links between perfectionism, control, anxious attachment, and eating disorder recovery from their lived experience.

In this episode, Kait and Morgan discuss:

• The roles of perfectionism and control in eating disorders (3:12)
• How perfectionism and control become coping mechanisms (6:07)
• How control gives the illusion of safety and the impact this has on an eating disorder (9:21)
• The challenge of perfectionism in eating disorder recovery (12:50)
• How to overcome all-or-nothing thinking and embrace discomfort (16:09)
• How one’s eating disorder develops from it’s own roots (18:42)
• The connection of an anxious attachment in relationships and eating disorders (22:47)
• The impact of external validation and social media impact on eating disorders (28:03)
• The importance of eating disorder education in recovery (31:53)
• How self-compassion is the key to sustaining recovery (35:26)
• The importance of replacing control with trust (39:41)
• Learning to listen to the physical cues from your body (42:12)
• How to unmute yourself and feel all of your emotions (44:27)
• How to transform your patterns with communication and trust while in recovery (47:30)
• How to challenge a high-functioning eating disorder (52:22)
• How to find your purpose in eating disorder recovery (58:10)
• Practical advice for letting go of your need to control (1:03:25)
• 
  

Content Warning: This episode contains brief mentions of eating disorder behaviors that Kait and Morgan have previously engaged in. Please listen in a way that feels safe for you and your recovery.

Episode guest: Morgan Hannaleck is a licensed therapist, mental health speaker, and author who specializes in eating disorders, relationships, and self-worth. After surviving a life-threatening eating disorder in her teens, Morgan began a decade-long journey of healing that transformed her pain into purpose. She now uses both her personal and clinical experience to help others reconnect with themselves, challenge shame, and build lives rooted in authenticity and joy. Through speaking, writing, and therapy, Morgan empowers people—especially young women—to know they’re never too far gone to come home to themselves.

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👉🏼 ⁠⁠bitebybiterecovery.org ⁠⁠

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