Eating Disorders Live IG Lone beach
initiative and Samar Shady.
treatment, spirituality barriers
The interview takes a profound turn with the inclusion of Samar Mashadi, a Ph.D. holder in religious studies, exploring the spiritual dimensions of eating disorders. Citing NHS statistics, Samar notes the rising prevalence of eating disorders, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes beyond surface-level factors.
Samar introduces Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and its enhancement, CBTE, as mainstream treatments. However, she advocates for a spiritual approach, recognizing that not all women can access or afford therapy. The emphasis shifts to the Nafs—the soul—as a profound aspect to be explored at a deeper level.
Dear Visitors,
We had a live session on Saturday, August 26 at 12 pm CST/6 pm BST. An engaging conversation on eating disorders in the Muslim world and the Muslim community with Maha Khan (@islamandeatingdisorders) and The Lone Bench Initiative (@thelonebenchinitiative) and @samar.mashadi to talk about barriers to treatment for Muslims in America and elsewhere. We discussed the prevalence of eating disorders in the Muslim world and samar. mashadi from the Department of Religious Studies at McMaster University talked to us about her current research on the eating disorders in the UK, a psychospiritual perspective to understanding eating disorders and the role of Islamic spirituality in recovery. Eating disorders are a problem outside of the West and it’s important to recognize this and begin to provide support in these nations as well. Islam and Eating disorders is a blog that spreads awareness about eating disorders in Muslims and The Lone Bench Initiative is the only 501(c)3 nonprofit in the United States that focuses on eating disorders in the Muslim community.
The Analysis
Written by Miaar Asaaf : Paelstine
In this enlightening Instagram Live interview between IslamandEatingsDisorder and the Lone Beach Initiative’s Maryam, we dive into the complex world of eating disorders and their intersection with faith and culture.
Lone Beach Initiative, a global organization addressing eating disorders and body image, was founded by Maryam due to the high financial barriers faced by those seeking treatment, especially considering the inadequate coverage by insurance in the USA.
Maryam’s dedication shines as she navigates challenges, such as the scarcity of Muslim therapists in the USA for eating disorders. She emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance from professionals who understand the psychological and belief-related aspects intertwined with one’s faith, enhancing the recovery journey.
Challenges extend to dietary choices, with Maryam adopting a vegetarian approach to accommodate halal restrictions. The struggle to adhere to cultural foods due to strict meal plans highlights the multifaceted nature of eating disorder recovery.
Contrasting perspectives emerge as Nadia shares her experience with treatment in Pakistan, where practicing faith aligns seamlessly with recovery and receives support from the religious community. The conversation pivots to the financial barriers in the USA, where insurance often necessitates severe illness to justify treatment costs, a stark contrast to Nadia’s belief that money should never hinder access to necessary treatments.
Maryam stated: “The problem with insurance that they need to see you very sick in order to justify their payment for your treatment is worth it”
And Nadia stated “That money shouldn’t be an obstacle or barrier when it comes to treatments”
The interview takes a profound turn with the inclusion of Samar Mashadi, a Ph.D. holder in religious studies, exploring the spiritual dimensions of eating disorders. Citing NHS statistics, Samar notes the rising prevalence of eating disorders, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes beyond surface-level factors.
Samar introduces Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and its enhancement, CBTE, as mainstream treatments. However, she advocates for a spiritual approach, recognizing that not all women can access or afford therapy. The emphasis shifts to the Nafs—the soul—as a profound aspect to be explored at a deeper level.
She said: “ED may take several month to years to develop and even become a part of the personality, so its disturbs their nafs, and shatter the voice of their soul”. Samar challenges conventional models medical, behavioural and addiction by proposing a spiritual approach, delving into psychodynamics to unearth the true causes of eating disorders.
Recognizing the development of harmful rituals like restricting, body dissatisfaction, hunger, and other food issues. “Duas, Salah, Recitation of Quran, Tahajud and Dhikr are all tools that can be used to overcome your ED. while of course not neglecting the medication”. She encourages connecting with one’s spiritual self through disciplined worship practices, such as Duas, Salah, Quran recitation, Tahajud, and Dhikr, supplementing medical interventions.
In conclusion, this Instagram Live session provided a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges individuals face in battling eating disorders, particularly in the intersection of faith, culture, and treatment accessibility. Maryam’s Lone Beach Initiative serves as a beacon, addressing financial hurdles and advocating for a holistic approach, while Samar Mashadi sheds light on the spiritual aspects that can complement traditional treatments, fostering a comprehensive understanding of eating disorder recovery.
