ERC & Pathlight In the News

HealthCentral recently featured Dr. Elizabeth Wassenaar in this piece that examines the use of GLP-1 agonists as weight loss medications. In the article, Dr. Wassenaar notes, "The impact of drugs like semaglutide on mental health is not yet well understood. . . .What we are seeing is that for some patients who have a history of an eating disorder, using GLP-1 agonists seems to be associated with relapses of their eating disorder."

A nice nod to our Mental Note podcast in this Salon article which discusses weight stigma. In the article, the writer refers to the 2021 episode with actress Jen Ponton and the discussion around Fatphobia, activism, Hollywood, and practical ways to push back against the marginalization of fat people.

Dr. Kim Anderson is featured in this Parents piece about ARFID--helping to break down what it is; how to recognize ARFID vs. "picky eating;" and when/how to access help. "It's not uncommon to confuse picky eating and ARFID; but the two are not the same thing. Though the lines can be blurred, there are ways to differentiate between the two, Anderson says. 'Unlike picky eating, ARFID is not a stage or a normal part of development. It’s not even 'extreme picky eating.' It’s a diagnosable and treatable eating disorder.'"

Virtual treatment has been popular among kids and teens and, until now, it’s been unclear how comfortable middle-aged patients are with the telehealth format. This new study from our research team shows adults 40+ recommend virtual care just as much as younger patients do.

Meredith Nisbet is featured in this Shape Magazine article which puts a spotlight on the body neutrality movement--defining what it is; why it matters; and how to put it into practice. In the piece, Nisbet offers, "Practicing kindness to oneself while diverting from harmful thought patters is helpful."

Leslee Marcom is quoted in this informative Healthline feature article, "Everything You Need to Know About Anorexia Nervosa Restricting Type," and shares the signs a loved one may be experiencing AN-R and their risk factors. The article also discusses the subtypes and symptoms; diagnostic requirements; and treatment.

ERC Clinical Director Rachel Engelhart was a featured guest on Fox 5 DC during Eating Disorder Awareness Week to discuss eating disorder stereotypes. In this segment, Rachel provides helpful information about how to recognize if your child may be struggling with an eating disorder and how to access help.

Dr. Allison Chase was a featured guest on KVUE for Eating Disorder Awareness Month to discuss the types of eating disorders; signs of when behaviors become dangerous; how to talk to a friend or loved one about your concerns; and how to seek help.

Dr. Anne Marie O'Melia is featured in this Psychiatric Times article about eating disorders and adolescent use of over-the-counter weight-loss products. The article discusses the psychological contributors to OTC weight-loss drug use; the increased use of GLP-1 agonist medications like Ozempic for weight-loss; strategies for early identification and intervention; and the connection between social media and adolescents with eating disorders.