Healing at the intersections through lyric, beat and rhyme

The voices and experiences of diverse people and communities are systemically marginalised and neglected from mental health literature, policy and practice; this is a time of need, and we must move with the times. Taking a critical, intersectional lens to mental health focusing especially on eating disorders, this piece offers an imaginative commentary on healing and recovery experiences that lie alongside, and often outside of, traditional frameworks which remain White, hyper-medicalised and restrictive. I make a case for centring selfhood and belonging at the core of recovery, and explicate how identification, connectedness and healing processes can be facilitated through art. I reference several musical works by Black and Brown female artists as sources of personal resonance, presenting avenues for mirroring, cultural connection, hope and homecoming essential to healing and wellbeing. I conclude that intersectional experiences of eating disorders require intersectional approaches that honour the complexity, tenacity and strength of all people, kin and communities. This piece implores readers to think deep and wide about being, helping and healing beyond bounds.