Taking the Worth Out of Weight and Embodying the Health at Every Size® (HAES®) Mindset: A Q&A With Thrive Wellness Waco Lead Dietitian Jen Fletcher, M.S., RD, LD, CNSC

Thrive • July 19, 2022

An innovative concept, the Health at Every Size® (HAES®) movement challenges existing public health narratives regarding the relationship between body size and health. Offering an alternative perspective, the HAES® approach debunks the widely-held belief that weight determines one’s well-being. Learn more about how the HAES® perspective can promote whole-body health in this thought-provoking Q&A with Thrive Wellness Waco Lead Dietitian Jen Fletcher, M.S., RD, LD, CNSC.

What is the HAES® approach?

The HAES® approach is a movement gaining in popularity that promotes all health behaviors, rather than weight management, as ways to support well-being. By asserting that body size doesn’t categorically indicate or affect health status, the HAES® perspective encourages society to focus on well-being as an attribute that people in all bodies possess.

How does the HAES® approach relate to nutrition and movement?

In regards to nutrition , the HAES® movement supports principles of Intuitive Eating , such as:

Flexible and individualized eating choices based on personal hunger and fullness cues
Rejecting the diet mentality as diets can disrupt one’s connection with the body while also harming physical and mental health
Making peace with food by not creating, accepting, or endorsing any moral judgments around different types of foods

The HAES® perspective encourages movement for all bodies . Society is flooded with harmful narratives about diet culture , weight bias (involving prejudice based on body size), weight stigma (involving stereotypes and misconceptions), and unrealistic expectations for how bodies “should” look. These misleading cultural messages can make movement seem less accessible to some individuals. Alternatively, HAES® promotes acceptance of all bodies and empowers individuals to move in ways they enjoy. Meeting every individual where they are, the HAES® approach endorses personal choice in movement, respect for ability levels, and self-kindness as they explore what movement means to them.

What does it mean to be a HAES®-informed eating disorder recovery provider?

While diet culture , weight bias, and weight stigma can contribute to the development of eating disorders , incorporating the HAES® ideals can help counteract these harmful societal narratives. HAES®-informed eating disorder recovery providers are weight inclusive and uphold the truth that all bodies are deserving of respect and compassionate care . HAES®-informed eating disorder recovery providers also guide clients in creating health goals that aren’t focused on weight which helps foster sustainable, healthy lifestyle changes for lasting recovery. By integrating HAES® principles into practice, providers are able to create mentally and physically supportive environments that are conducive to healing for all bodies.

How does a HAES® perspective benefit well-being?

A harmonious relationship with one’s body can nurture a peaceful relationship with food and eating . By empowering a person to accept their body as it is, HAES® promotes a deeper mind-body connection and creates a natural pathway to practicing intuitive eating. Overall, HAES® allows for a shift in mindset that inspires individuals to ditch diets, enjoy true satisfaction during everyday eating experiences, and free themselves from societal pressure to achieve unrealistic body ideals.

What are some common misconceptions about HAES®?

The HAES® movement encourages individuals to disregard any societal or medical meaning given to the measurement of weight. Even still, many individuals falsely assume that if weight goals aren’t present, health will suffer. This isn’t the case. Research shows that a HAES® approach is associated with improvements in health, metabolic risk factors, and eating disorder behaviors.

Additionally, individuals often misunderstand the HAES® movement to mean that the entire range of the size spectrum is considered “healthy.” In reality, body size doesn’t determine well-being. It’s important to shift the focus away from weight and related goals and instead concentrate on healthy behaviors . By its very nature, weight isn’t a behavior, and thus can’t be implemented to promote well-being.

How can people adopt a HAES® mindset?

By appreciating your body exactly how it is right now, you can begin embracing the HAES® mindset. This may feel like a classic “easier said than done” situation, but the truth is that all bodies are deserving of love, compassion, respect, and care . We are all created to be unique in so many ways, including the inherent diversity of body shape and size. By wholeheartedly accepting your body, you can begin your journey to having a peaceful, healthy relationship with your entire self.

LEARN TO LOVE YOUR BODY

At Thrive Wellness, we want everyone to feel comfortable and connected with their bodies, but we also understand the many complex factors that can interfere with this. Approaching treatment from the perspective that physical, mental, and behavioral health are intertwined, we offer comprehensive, compassionate care for all. Our HAES®-informed, interdisciplinary team includes mental and behavioral health specialists, registered dietitians, psychiatric professionals, and additional clinical support staff.* They collaborate on each individual’s care to help them lead happy, healthy, body-positive lives. Reach out to learn more about our healthcare services .

*Additional services and providers may be available depending on location.

About the Contributor

Thrive Wellness Waco Lead Dietitian Jen Fletcher, M.S., RD, LD, CNSC

Jen Fletcher earned a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences from Texas A&M University and a master’s degree in nutrition and dietetics from Texas Tech University. She also completed a dietetic internship at Texas A&M and is a certified nutrition support clinician (CNSC). With several years of experience as a clinical dietician, Jen specializes in medical nutrition therapy with a focus on critical care. Her career spans working in intensive care, newborn intensive care, oncology, renal, and progressive care units.

Jen is passionate about promoting healing through nutrition and believes that proper nourishment is fundamental to living life to the fullest. Through her practice, she is committed to helping others enhance their relationships with food and their bodies on their journey to recovery. At Thrive Wellness Waco, Jen works alongside a multidisciplinary team to treat those who are struggling with eating disorders to do just that. She aspires to make a positive impact in the lives of others and takes pride in being part of a team and organization dedicated to quality, community-driven care.

Jen savors spending her spare time in the company of friends and family, including her husband and cat. She enjoys reading, running, indoor cycling, watching TV with her husband, and taking “way too many” pictures of her feline fur baby.

The post Taking the Worth Out of Weight and Embodying the Health at Every Size® (HAES®) Mindset: A Q&A With Thrive Wellness Waco Lead Dietitian Jen Fletcher, M.S., RD, LD, CNSC first appeared on Thrive Wellness.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Is It OCD or an Eating Disorder? What Parents Need to Know

July 17, 2025

As a parent, noticing alarming behaviors around food or routines in your child can raise some important questions. You might be asking yourself, “Is this an eating disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or something else entirely?” Understanding the signs and differences between these disorders is key to getting your child effective, timely treatment. In this blog, we’ll break down the overlap between OCD and eating disorders, what signs to watch for, and how to get professional help. If you're a parent wondering “Is my child’s eating disorder actually OCD?” or “OCD vs eating disorder in teens,” know that you’re not alone and you’re in the right place to find specialized care for your child. What Is OCD? Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition where unwanted thoughts (obsessions) cause anxiety, leading to repetitive behaviors (compulsions) intended to ease that anxiety. OCD can be focused on any subject. Common obsessions include contamination, perfectionism, scrupulosity, and harm, but sometimes, the content of obsessions can be focused on food, body image, or weight. What Is an Eating Disorder? Eating disorders , like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) involve disturbed eating behaviors and intense concerns about body weight or shape. These conditions go beyond dieting or “picky eating” and can become life-threatening without professional intervention. The Overlap: Why It Can Be Confusing OCD and eating disorders often share similar symptoms : Ritualistic eating (e.g., needing to eat foods in a certain order or at a certain time) Rigid rules about food (like only eating certain food groups or certain amounts of food) Excessive checking (like weighing food or body or repeated checking of expiration dates or thorough cooking) Avoidance behaviors ( like avoiding carbs, fats, or other food groups or avoiding places or objects that can trigger obsessions) Distress when routines are disrupted (either around mealtimes or exercise routines) So, How Can You Tell the Difference? Use the following chart to compare and contrast symptoms of OCD and eating disorders.

3 Adolescent Mental Health Red Flags Providers Should Watch for During Summer

June 27, 2025

How school breaks can mask or amplify eating disorders, anxiety, and OCD symptoms and how to intervene

Navigating Coming Out: Emotional Wellness Tips for Every Stage

June 4, 2025

Coming out is a deeply personal, courageous, and in many cases, life-changing act. Whether you're sharing your sexual orientation or gender identity, coming out is about embracing authenticity and sharing an essential part of who you are. During the process of coming out, prioritizing your mental health at every stage is crucial. In this blog, we'll discuss insights and strategies to support your mental health before, during, and after coming out. Wherever you are in your journey, know that your experience is valid and you are not alone. Understanding the Mental Impact of Coming Out Coming out can bring about a lot of big feelings, including fear, relief, joy, anxiety, grief, and hope, sometimes all at once. Know that heightened emotions during this time are completely normal. Sharing such an integral part of yourself with the world can feel intense, but even with the ups and downs, being authentically you is worth it. Because LGBTQIA+ individuals face added mental health burdens due to stigma and discrimination, taking care of yourself during this time is more important than ever. You might experience increased anxiety, mental exhaustion, or avoidance ahead of coming out, so don’t be afraid to reach out for support. At its core, coming out is about authentic self-expression and showing your truest self, which can feel both exciting and scary at the same time . The self-acceptance and community gained from coming out is a vital part of finding long-term strength and joy. Still, it’s okay if you feel uncertain or conflicted, and these feelings are just part of the process. Before Coming Out: Emotional Preparation Coming out starts with reflection. Remember that there’s no rush when it comes to figuring out who you are. It’s okay to take time to understand your identity and what coming out might mean for you. Here are a few questions to consider: What do I hope to gain by coming out? Who feels emotionally safe to talk to? What are my fears, and how can I manage them? Mental wellness tips before coming out: Journaling can help you better understand your feelings and fears and explore different ways to share your truth. Talking through your feelings and different scenarios with a therapist , especially one who is LGBTQIA+ affirming, can help you to feel more supported and ready to come out. Practice grounding techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or visualization to ease anxiety ahead of sharing your identity. Helpful resources for coming out include: Trevor Project Lifeline (1-866-488-7386) TrevorSpace (an online community for LGBTQIA+ youth) OurCenter (a local community center for the LGBTQIA+ community in Reno) During the Coming Out Process: Staying Grounded The act of coming out can feel intimidating, as you’re sharing such a vital part of who you are. You might experience fear, panic, or doubt. While these feelings are real, know that you don’t have to navigate them alone. Tips for emotional resilience: Practice conversations ahead of time with a therapist or supportive friend so you feel ready when the time comes to share. Choose a time and place where you feel safe and in control. Use affirming statements, like, “I deserve to be loved for who I am.” Coping with negative responses: Set emotional boundaries with people who aren’t supportive. Create an emotional safety plan: know who you can call, where you can go, and what can help soothe you in moments of distress. After Coming Out: Processing and Healing Coming out, no matter how it went, deserves to be celebrated. An act of strength and authenticity like coming out is no small feat, so be proud of yourself for sharing who you are. Even so, the emotional aftermath can be complicated. You might feel joy and empowerment or loss and grief, especially if relationships shift. Healing strategies: Acknowledge your courage . Even difficult conversations are acts of strength. Rebuild your safety if you've experienced rejection. This might mean changing your environment or seeking new support systems. Release guilt or shame. Being who you are is never something you should feel ashamed or guilty for. Support networks can make a huge difference. Seek out different forms of support like: LGBTQIA+ support groups (in-person or online) Peer mentors or community leaders Allies, friends, or family who affirm and respect your identity Therapeutic options to deal with stress, grief, or isolation associated with coming out: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can help process trauma. Narrative therapy helps you rewrite your story in your own empowering voice. Coming Out More Than Once: Navigating the Long Game Coming out isn’t just a single milestone, it’s a recurring process. You might come out again and again: to a healthcare provider, a neighbor, a partner, or a friend. It can feel exhausting or unfair to have to come out more than once, but each time, you’ll continue to find more strength, confidence, and understanding for yourself. Other tips for coming out: Focus on cultivating a strong inner identity that doesn’t rely on external validation. You know who you are, and you don’t need to prove yourself to anyone. Create a personal toolkit of coping and grounding strategies to deal with stress or burn-out associated with coming out. Thrive Wellness offers a free breathing exercise guide to help relieve anxiety and calm the nervous system. Download it here . Find affirmation and support through community. This can look like finding a chosen family, looking up to queer role models, attending events that celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community and its history, and working on embracing authenticity and having pride in who you are. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to coming out, and it’s never too late to share who you are. Whether you're preparing to come out, in the midst of sharing your truth, or processing what came after, know that you are worthy of love, safety, and joy. Your truth is worth celebrating, today and everyday! For support during the coming out process and beyond, reach out to our team of affirming, inclusive, and compassionate mental and physical health care providers. We're here for you.