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Eating Disorder Myths — Debunked

Eating disorder myths thrive on stereotypes and shame—fueling stigma, delaying care, and keeping us silent.
Colorful Cubist Portraits of Diverse Faces Depicting Community Culture and Human Connection

Eating disorders (EDs) are serious mental illnesses, not lifestyle choices or fleeting obsessions. Yet, widespread myths thrive—fueling stigma, delaying care, and endangering lives. Today, we’re dispelling the most common myths about eating disorders using peer‑reviewed research and expert consensus to offer clarity, compassion, and hope.

Myth 1: Eating disorders are a choice.

Reality: Eating disorders arise from a complex interplay of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors—not willpower or vanity. People do not choose these illnesses any more than they choose cancer or diabetes. Research has identified several genetic variants associated with anorexia nervosa, including genes related to metabolism and psychiatric conditions (Watson et al., Nature Genetics, 2019).

Read more: No One Chooses to Have an Eating Disorder

Myth 2: Only girls and young women get eating disorders

Reality: Eating disorders affect people of all genders and ages. While females are more likely to be diagnosed, a 2022 report from the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) noted that one in three people with an eating disorder is male, and that men are often less likely to be diagnosed due to gender bias in screening tools and stereotypes about who “gets” eating disorders.

Myth 3: Only "thin" people can have eating disorders

Reality: Eating disorders can occur at any weight. Atypical anorexia nervosa, where individuals meet all criteria for anorexia except low weight, is recognized in the DSM-5 and is considered just as medically dangerous as typical anorexia nervosa (Sawyer et al., Journal of Adolescent Health, 2016). 

People in larger bodies often experience delays in eating disorder treatment because of weight stigma and the false belief that weight loss is always healthy for them—even when they show the same emotional distress and medical risks as those in thinner bodies. (Puhl & Suh, Current Obesity Reports, 2015).

Myth 4: Eating disorders aren’t that serious

Reality: Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder, with both medical complications and suicide contributing to the risk (Arcelus et al., Archives of General Psychiatry, 2011). Bulimia and binge eating disorder are also associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal distress, diabetes, and mood disorders.

Myth 5: The media causes eating disorders

Reality: Media influence can reinforce unhealthy body ideals, but it is not a direct cause of eating disorders. According to the Academy for Eating Disorders, sociocultural pressures can contribute to body dissatisfaction, but genetic predisposition, trauma, anxiety, and perfectionistic personality traits are stronger predictors of who develops an ED (Levine & Murnen, 2009, Clinical Psychology Review). Media may fuel the fire—but it doesn’t light the match.

Read more: Social Media, Body Image, and Eating Disorders

Myth 6: Families are to blame for eating disorders

Reality: Families do not cause eating disorders. While a family history of disordered eating may increase genetic risk, environmental triggers are diverse. In fact, family-based therapy is a leading treatment for adolescents with anorexia nervosa and often results in better outcomes than individual therapy (Lock et al., 2010, JAMA Psychiatry). Supportive family involvement is a protective factor, not a cause.

Myth 7: Eating disorders only affect white, wealthy, Western populations.

Reality: Eating disorders exist across all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Data from the National Comorbidity Survey Replication found similar or higher rates of binge eating disorder among Black and Hispanic populations compared to white populations (Alegria et al., 2007, Int J Eat Disord.). However, people of color are significantly less likely to be diagnosed or referred to treatment, in part due to implicit bias among clinicians (Becker et al., 2003, Int J Eat Disord.).

Myth 8: It's impossible to recover from an eating disorder

Reality: Recovery is absolutely possible—and it happens every day. 

The belief that people with eating disorders never fully recover is not only false, it’s deeply harmful. This myth fosters hopelessness, discourages individuals from seeking care, and can even delay or derail recovery altogether. In reality, with timely, evidence-based treatment, most individuals can and do recover—not just from the physical symptoms, but from the underlying emotional and psychological distress as well.

A 22-year longitudinal study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that more than 60% of individuals with anorexia or bulimia nervosa recovered fully, and many others achieved significant symptom reduction and improved quality of life (Eddy et al., 2017). Recovery looks different for each person, but lasting healing is absolutely within reach.

Finding Hope + Healing

At Magnolia Creek, we believe you deserve to recover and live a fulfilling life, free from the chains an eating disorder places on you. We also believe that healing must address the whole person. Our treatment philosophy is grounded in compassion, clinical excellence, and the understanding that eating disorders are complex illnesses that require individualized care. That’s why we treat not just symptoms, but the underlying emotional, physical, and spiritual wounds.

If you’re ready to start on the road to recovery, support is available at Magnolia Creek. Reach out today to speak with an admissions specialist. Your journey can begin here.

Magnolia Creek is dually licensed to treat eating disorders and a multitude of co-occurring disorders. We tailor our treatment plans to individual needs and goals while empowering every client in our care to embrace recovery with resilience and independence.

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If you want to learn more about eating disorder treatment at Magnolia Creek, explore our admissions page or call us today.

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More Resources

Looking to learn more? Explore additional insights, tools, and support from Magnolia Creek below.

The Link Between Alcohol Use Disorder + Binge Eating Disorder

Lesser-Known Eating Disorders: Symptoms, Risks, + the Path to Recovery

Atypical Anorexia: Symptoms, Dangers, + Why It’s Often Overlooked

Understanding ARFID: Risk Factors, Symptoms, + Treatment

Understanding the Binge-Purge Cycle in Eating Disorders

The Link Between Eating Disorders and Suicide

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Sully - Therapy Dog
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Sully, CGCA

Therapeutic Facility Dog

Sully is Magnolia Creek’s beloved therapeutic facility dog in training. A mini-Australian labradoodle, he’s undergoing socialization, desensitization, and obedience training as he works toward earning his Canine Good Citizen Award. He participates in individual and group sessions and is known for his playful high-fives and calming presence. Sully brings comfort, joy, and a sense of home to the residential setting, helping clients feel more at ease throughout their treatment experience.

Anna Tamburello - Magnolia Creek

Anna Tamburello, M.Ed., ALC, MT-BC

Primary Therapist

Anna Tamburello serves as a primary therapist at Magnolia Creek, where she combines evidence-based techniques with creative approaches to support client recovery. She earned her master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Auburn University and holds a bachelor’s in music therapy from Appalachian State University.

A board-certified music therapist, Anna integrates music therapy into treatment programming and is the proud handler of Sully, Magnolia Creek’s therapeutic facility dog. She is passionate about empowering individuals on their recovery journeys and believes in meeting clients with compassion, creativity, and care.

Jenna Stanley - Teen Program Administrator - Headshot

Jenna Stanley

Teen Program Administrator

Jenna Stanley serves as the teen program administrator, overseeing clients’ continued education during their treatment. She holds bachelor’s degrees in psychology, history, and education from Samford University. She is passionate about helping clients discover their strengths and reach their full potential in the classroom.

At Magnolia Creek, Jenna fosters a warm and supportive learning environment tailored to each client’s individual goals. Her academic interests include social-emotional learning, Greek mythology, Feudal Japan, neuroscience, and civics. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, spending time with loved ones, and working on puzzles.

Kelsey Byrd Magnolia Creek

Kelsey Byrd

Family Therapist

Kelsey Byrd serves as a family therapist at Magnolia Creek. She earned her bachelor’s degree in human services with a minor in nutrition from Troy University and her master’s in clinical mental health counseling from Jacksonville State University. During her graduate internship at Magnolia Creek, Kelsey confirmed her passion for supporting individuals with eating disorders.

She utilizes a range of treatment modalities, including motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, experiential family therapy, and the Gottman Method. Kelsey believes that strong teamwork within the family system is essential to lasting recovery.

Chef Clif Holt Magnolia Creek

Clif Holt

Chef

Chef Clif Holt brings over 25 years of experience as a chef, caterer, restaurateur, and culinary instructor. His philosophy centers on local, sustainable, and healthy eating, combining nutrition with flavor and creativity.

He is passionate about using food as both nourishment and art, and his favorite aspect of culinary work is empowering others. Chef Clif enjoys teaching individuals the skills and confidence they need to feel comfortable in the kitchen — encouraging them to create and prepare meals of their own.

Magnolia Creek - Taylor Helms

Taylor Helms

Alum Relations Coordinator

As the alum relations coordinator at Magnolia Creek, Taylor Helms is passionate about building a safe, supportive community for clients after residential treatment. She earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise and nutrition science from the University of Montevallo in 2021 and joined Magnolia Creek in 2022 as a recovery care specialist, earning Tier II status.

In her current role, Taylor leads weekly support groups for alums and their families, fostering recovery-focused conversations and connections. She believes in the power of community and is dedicated to encouraging and uplifting others as they work toward their recovery goals.

Courtney Malbrough - Primary Therapist - Magnolia Creek

Courtney Malbrough

Recovery Care Specialist Supervisor

Courtney Malbrough holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and sociology with a minor in psychology. She previously served as a mental health specialist and assistant supervisor at the Louisiana Methodist Children’s Home. In this residential treatment center, she developed a deep passion for mental health care. That passion continues at Magnolia Creek, where she is dedicated to supporting clients on their journey to recovery from eating disorders.

As the Recovery Care Specialist Supervisor, Courtney oversees the residential department to ensure the well-trained team delivers high-quality, compassionate care. She also provides leadership for the residential living and learning experience, helping to create a structured, supportive environment that fosters healing.

Heath Hagood Magnolia Creek

Heath Hagood

Facilities Manager

Heath Hagood brings over 20 years of experience in the home improvement industry and more than 13 years in lawn maintenance to his role at Magnolia Creek. With 36 scenic acres to care for, he utilizes his skills to maintain a peaceful and welcoming environment that supports healing and recovery.

Heath enjoys using his expertise to help others and finds fulfillment in contributing to a space that promotes mental health and well-being. Outside of work, he loves spending time outdoors with his family.

Kayla Harvey Magnolia Creek

Kayla Harvey

Assistant Director of Admissions

Kayla Harvey serves as the Assistant Director of Eating Disorder Admissions, bringing 10 years of social work experience to her role. She began her career in mental health, working with adolescents and adults diagnosed with co-occurring disorders, and previously directed a foster care agency in Anderson, Indiana.

Kayla holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Ball State University, a master’s degree in human services from Southeastern University, and a master’s degree in healthcare administration from Walden University.

Kayla’s lifelong passion for helping others is evident in her compassionate approach and commitment to each client and family she supports. In her free time, she enjoys being with her husband, family, and two dogs.

Rachel Cannon Magnolia Creek

Rachel Cannon, MS, LMFT

PHP Coordinator + Therapist

Rachel Cannon serves as the PHP coordinator and a primary therapist at Magnolia Creek. In her coordinator role, she oversees the daily clinical and administrative operations of the partial hospitalization program (PHP) and collaborates across disciplines to support seamless client transitions.

As a primary therapist, Rachel works individually with clients to explore negative thought patterns, strengthen self-worth, and support lasting recovery. She draws from evidence-based approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT).

Rachel has experience treating individuals with substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, grief, and relational challenges. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in human development and family studies, with a specialization in marriage and family therapy, both from the University of Alabama.

Kelly Moore Magnolia Creek

Kelly Moore

Therapist

Kelly Moore is an individual therapist at Magnolia Creek. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in human services from the University of Montevallo and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Alabama.

With over five years of experience in mental health, Kelly has worked in both acute hospital and residential settings with adults and adolescents (ages 11–17). She has treated clients facing impulse control issues, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, delusions, and co-occurring disorders.

Kelly takes an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and psychodynamic therapy to best support each client’s needs.

Samantha Patterson - Primary Therapist - Magnolia Creek

Samantha Patterson, MS

Primary Therapist

Samantha holds an Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC) certification and has served as clinical director at both The Phoenix House and Bessemer Behavioral Health. Since joining Magnolia Creek, she has earned her EMDR certification and provides trauma-specific therapy.

Samantha Patterson is an individual therapist specializing in co-occurring disorders, including substance use and eating disorders. She earned her master’s degree in social work from the University of Alabama in 2015 and began her career in substance abuse treatment across Alabama.

In addition to her clinical work, Samantha serves on the board of directors for the Alabama School of Alcohol and Drug Studies (ASADS), where she helps advance education and standards in the field of addiction studies.

Janifer Stallworth Magnolia Creek

Janifer Stallworth, MS, NCC

Lead Therapist

Janifer Stallworth serves as a family therapist at Magnolia Creek. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Argosy University in Atlanta.

Janifer draws from a range of modalities in her work, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and experiential family therapy. She has experience supporting clients with addiction, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and co-occurring disorders.

As both a therapist and a mother, Janifer understands the vital role families play in the healing process. She is passionate about helping individuals and their loved ones strengthen connection, communication, and resilience on the path to recovery.

Alex Aerni Magnolia Creek

Alex Aerni, MS, RD, LD

Registered Dietitian

Alex Aerni discovered her passion for nutrition in high school and pursued both her undergraduate and graduate degrees in nutrition and dietetics at Samford University.

During her dietetic internship, Alex completed a rotation at Magnolia Creek, where she developed a deep interest in nutrition counseling and reaffirmed her commitment to helping individuals in recovery.

In her work with clients, Alex uses motivational interviewing and intuitive eating principles to support lasting change and promote a healthier relationship with food. She is dedicated to creating a safe, collaborative space where clients feel empowered on their recovery journey.

Terrica Vincent CRNP

Terrica Vincent, CRNP

Nurse Practitioner

Terrica Vincent is a board-certified family nurse practitioner at Magnolia Creek, where she provides medical management and support to clients in treatment.

She began her nursing education at Central Alabama Community College, where she earned an associate’s degree in nursing. She went on to complete her bachelor’s in nursing at Jacksonville State University and a master’s in nursing from the University of Alabama.

Terrica received national board certification as a family nurse practitioner from the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2018. She brings a compassionate and patient-centered approach to care and is committed to supporting clients on their recovery journey.

Outside of work, Terrica enjoys spending time with her husband and their four children.

Dr Danielle Hagood Magnolia Creek

Dr. Danielle Hagood

Clinical Director

Dr. Danielle Hagood is a licensed psychologist specializing in eating disorder treatment since 2005. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in counseling psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and a doctorate in clinical psychology from the American School of Psychology.

Before joining Magnolia Creek, Dr. Hagood served as the clinical director of a partial hospitalization program, where she developed programming, provided clinical supervision, led therapy groups, and ensured adherence to quality standards for accreditation and licensing.

Her clinical expertise includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family systems work. Passionate about helping individuals grow and heal, she is particularly dedicated to educating and reaching out to those affected by eating disorders. Dr. Hagood enjoys creating connections in the community and empowering clients through evidence-based, compassionate care.

Morgan Mason Magnolia Creek

Morgan Mason RDN, LDN

Director of Nutrition Services

As Director of Nutrition Services at Magnolia Creek, Morgan Mason oversees the whole food and nutrition program. A registered dietitian nutritionist with over 14 years of experience, she applies evidence-based practices to support clients in their recovery. She is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and is certified through the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

Morgan’s personal experience with an eating disorder fuels her passion for helping others heal. She believes in every person’s capacity for growth and transformation. She earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Auburn University and completed her dietetic internship and graduate studies at Mississippi State University.

In her spare time, Morgan enjoys traveling, hiking, and playing tennis. She also cherishes quality time with friends and family.

Alycia Aldieri Magnolia Creek

Alycia Aldieri

AVP of Admissions

As AVP of Eating Disorder Admissions, Alycia Aldieri partners with the clinical partnership team to ensure a responsive, compassionate, and seamless admissions experience. She brings extensive experience working with adults and adolescents with co-occurring disorders, primarily in residential treatment settings.

Alycia holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Benedictine University and a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from East Carolina University, where she received classical vocal training. Clinical experience, spiritual beliefs, and 12-step principles shape her therapeutic and professional approach.

Alycia is deeply committed to supporting individuals and families with integrity, compassion, and ethics. She believes that recovery is possible for anyone willing to pursue it — and that living a life of recovery is worth the effort.

Her greatest fulfillment comes from being of service to others, and she’s dedicated to guiding each client and family through the admissions process with clarity, care, and hope.

Magnolia Creek Leadership Tammy Beasley

Tammy Beasley, MS, RDN, CEDS-C

National Director of Nutrition Programming

With over 35 years of experience as a registered dietitian, Tammy Beasley has dedicated her career to advancing the recovery from eating disorders. She was the first registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) to earn the Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) credential through the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP) in 1993. She later served as certification director from 2013 to 2017, helping to secure CEDS approval for dietitians.

Tammy co-authored the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Standards of Practice for Registered Dietitians treating eating disorders and has developed innovative nutrition programs nationwide. She also mentors clinicians, serves as a media resource, and operates a private practice supporting individuals and organizations.

Tammy’s core principle guides her work: “Do no shame.” She is passionate about helping clients and providers embrace the possibility of full recovery with compassion, dignity, and evidence-based care.

Dr. Tom Scales, Magnolia Creek Medical Director

Dr. Tom Scales

Medical Director

Dr. Tom Scales serves as the Network Medical Director for Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s Eating Disorder Network, including Magnolia Creek. In this role, he provides psychiatric and medical care to clients and supports clinical excellence across the network. He is board-certified in internal medicine, psychiatry, neurology, and addiction medicine.

Dr. Scales earned his undergraduate degree from Wheaton College and completed medical school at the University of Tennessee in Memphis. He went on to complete a combined internal medicine and psychiatry residency at Rush Presbyterian St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago.

Passionate about eating disorder treatment, Dr. Scales has delivered numerous community presentations and media appearances on the topic. He also hosted a weekly live web radio show, Understanding Eating Disorders, on VoiceAmerica Health and Wellness, featuring professionals and individuals with lived experience. And, most importantly, he is a devoted husband and proud father of two.

Lindsay Curlee - Executive Director - Magnolia Creek

Lindsay Curlee

Executive Director

As executive director at Magnolia Creek, Lindsay Curlee oversees administrative, operational, and clinical services to ensure the delivery of effective, compassionate care. She leads the team in upholding core principles that promote sustainable, high-quality treatment outcomes.

Lindsay holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Valdosta State University, along with bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminology from Valdosta State and Florida State University, respectively. With over 22 years of behavioral health experience, she has over 15 years of experience in direct clinical care and served 6 years as program coordinator at the Pride Institute in Fort Lauderdale, served as Director of Admissions at the Apalachee Center and served as utilization review coordinator at Magnolia Creek.   

Lindsay is passionate about guiding clients and families toward lasting recovery and is always available to those seeking admission. In her free time, Lindsay enjoys spending quality time with her spouse and their 4 children.

Stefan Glamp Magnolia Creek

Stefan Glamp

National Director of Alum Services

Stefan Glamp leads the development of the alum community across Odyssey Behavioral Healthcare’s facilities, supporting lasting recovery through structured and compassionate post-treatment engagement. His approach ensures clients remain connected and supported after discharge, helping sustain long-term treatment outcomes.

With extensive experience building and directing alum programs in both addiction and mental health settings, Stefan specializes in meeting individuals where they are in their recovery journey. He also cultivates meaningful community partnerships to extend support beyond the treatment setting. Stefan is deeply committed to the belief that long-term recovery is not only possible — but achievable for all.

Campus Gallery - Magnolia Creek - lakefront area
Magnolia Creek Campus - Pond with benches
Campus Gallery - Magnolia Creek - lakefront area 3
Campus Gallery - Magnolia Creek - Outdoor trail
Magnolia Creek - Transitional living - outdoor hammock area
Magnolia Creek - Transitional living - living room
Magnolia Creek - Transitional living - kitchen and dining
Magnolia Creek - Transitional living - dining room
Magnolia Creek - Transitional living - bedroom
Magnolia Creek - Transitional living - bathroom
Magnolia Creek Campus - Adult treatment building
Magnolia Creek Campus - Pond with dock and gazebo
Magnolia Creek Campus - Pond with benches
Magnolia Creek Campus - dock with gazebo over pond
Magnolia Creek Campus - Barn exterior
Magnolia Creek Campus - residential living room
Magnolia Creek Campus - transitional living dining area
Magnolia Creek Campus - transitional living living area
Magnolia Creek Campus - residential bedroom
Magnolia Creek Campus - art room
Chrissy Hall Headshot - Magnolia Creek

Chrissy Hall, LCSW

Group Chief Executive Officer

As Group CEO, Chrissy Hall is responsible for the overall operations, executive leadership team, and delivery of clinical services at Magnolia Creek. She began her career over 25 years ago in the behavioral healthcare field as a direct care staff member. Her experience is primarily in executive leadership positions, serving residential treatment centers, freestanding acute care hospitals, outpatient centers, and military treatment programs, with a focus on clinical and business development.

Chrissy’s areas of expertise include overseeing quality and compliance for startups, clinical best practices, staff education, and program development. She is passionate about leading teams to provide the highest quality of care in safe, therapeutic environments. She received her MSW from Virginia Commonwealth University and is currently licensed as a clinical social worker.

Chrissy is married and has two sons, ages 17 and 20. During her free time, she enjoys going to her sons’ baseball games and traveling.