The Monarch Blog

Whether you're seeking information, inspiration, or community, we invite you to join us as we navigate the complexities of being well together.

Image of a monarch butterfly, representing the Monarch Wellness and Psychotherapy blog
Chronic Illness | Mind-Body Wellness Carissa Hannum Chronic Illness | Mind-Body Wellness Carissa Hannum

Living with Chronic Pain and an Eating Disorder

Living with chronic pain and an eating disorder can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to navigate it alone. This blog explores the connection between invisible illness, emotional coping, and disordered eating, offering insight, support, and treatment options that honor both your body and mind. If you're struggling, help is possible. Read the full post at Monarch Wellness to learn more and take the next step toward healing.

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What Is Orthorexia? Understanding the Obsession with Healthy Eating

Struggling with food rules or obsessed with eating “clean”? Orthorexia Nervosa is a lesser-known eating disorder that can seriously impact your health, happiness, and relationships. Learn the signs, how it’s treated, and why getting support matters. Ready to understand your relationship with food? Start here.

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The Importance of Community in Eating Disorder Recovery

Recovery doesn’t have to be lonely. Whether you’re navigating anorexia, bulimia, BED, or another eating disorder, community support can be a powerful part of healing. Learn how shared connection, group support, and encouragement from others in recovery can help you feel seen and keep moving forward. Read the blog to discover how to build or find your recovery community.

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When Eating Feels Hard: Eating Disorders, Sensory Issues, ARFID, and Body Image

Struggling with food textures, eating in public, or being called a “picky eater”? You’re not alone. This blog explores the connection between sensory issues, ARFID, eating disorders, and body image and why eating can feel so hard sometimes. Learn practical tips, feel seen, and take the next step toward a more peaceful relationship with food.

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Why You Sometimes “Feel Fat”: A Look at Proprioception and Body Awareness

Ever wonder why you suddenly “feel fat” even when nothing has physically changed? This blog breaks down the science behind body awareness and proprioception, a lesser-known sense that can get thrown off by stress, trauma, or eating disorder recovery. Learn how to respond with self-compassion and grounding tools that really help. Read more for supportive insight and practical tips you can use today.

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Eating Disorders | Nutrition Support Carissa Hannum Eating Disorders | Nutrition Support Carissa Hannum

Understanding Eating Disorders in Children and Teens: A Parent’s Guide

Wondering if your child’s eating habits might be a sign of something more? This blog helps parents understand the early signs of eating disorders in children and teens, why they develop, and how to offer compassionate support. Learn what to watch for and how to take the next step toward healing. Read more to support your child’s emotional health and recovery.

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Why I Might Be Relapsing and Struggling Right Now: A Trans Perspective

Feeling overwhelmed by relapse, trauma, or current events as a trans or LGBTQ+ person? Monarch Wellness offers compassionate counseling and therapy in Maryland, Washington DC, and Virginia. Find supportive guidance on coping with eating disorders, addiction, anxiety, and stress. You're not alone, and we're here to help.

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When You're the Parent with an Eating Disorder

Being a parent while navigating eating disorder recovery is incredibly tough but you’re not alone. This supportive guide from Monarch Wellness offers practical tips to help you care for your kids while healing yourself. Whether you’re in Maryland, Washington DC, or Virginia, you deserve support. Learn how to find balance, build connection, and take the next step in your recovery journey.

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