Episode 27: College track star Allison Grady on eating disorders, mental illness

CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussions on eating disorders, disordered eating, and body dysmorphia.

College sprinter Allison Grady would look at pictures of herself competing and tell herself, "I wasn't sick enough." She was battling bulimia, anxiety and depression, yet she continued to post outstanding times for North Central College, while earning accolades for her academics. Yet because she didn't look like she was suffering, she continued to do just that.

The brutal reality is that women's bodies change more significantly than men's, and Allison struggled to accept that she'll never be as fast as she was as a senior in high school. Add in a society obsessed with body image, and Allison has survived a perfect storm. But it's not all sunshine and rainbows going forward. She knows she'll always be in recovery, and in her role with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, she's striving to help others in their journey.

TW: This episode includes discussions on eating disorders and mental illness.

Our conversation with Allison was presented by DUI & Behavioral Health Counseling Centers, which has offices here in northern Illinois – in Sycamore, Plano, and Crystal Lake. If you suspect you or someone you love has a problem with drinking, drugs, mental illness or anger, call 815-895-9000 today and set up an evaluation. Visit duisycamore.com for more information.