GUEST LECTURE at the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH)

On May 28, 2026, I was invited as a guest speaker to the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH) Kiel. The event was organized by Fem*Med Kiel – a working group of the Kiel Medical Students' Association, which is committed to intersectional feminism against sexism and all forms of discrimination.

After spending the morning at Falckensteiner Strand and exploring various parts of Kiel, I went to UKSH in the afternoon. In the pharmacology lecture hall, I gave my presentation on eating disorders and, in this context, also spoke about my self-help book Normalgewicht.

I began by introducing the content, history, and motivation behind my book. I then addressed aspects that are often overlooked in public perception: affected individuals who do not fit the typical cliché, the competitive struggle among those with the illness, and the increasing influence of social media. The role of clinics and the question of how relatives and professionals can provide support were also a focus.

Unlike my previous presentations, fewer people were present this time. Nevertheless, I found the event equally valuable. Some of the attendees had traveled specifically for my presentation – some for up to 45 minutes. What is usually a more open question and discussion session developed into a smaller, but all the more personal, circle this time. This intensive exchange, in particular, gave me a lot: through the openness of the attendees, the conversations with affected individuals and relatives, and through the shared thoughts on dealing with the illness and the perspective of parents of affected children.

This presentation was different from my previous ones – but by no means less significant. Because this day, too, was shaped by important impulses, encounters, and conversations from which I will take a lot for the future. I thank everyone who was there and also Fem*Med Kiel for the invitation, which gave me the opportunity to share my knowledge and experiences.

Click here to watch the video of the presentation.

If you are interested in a presentation or collaboration, please send me a message via the contact form or by email to: info.johannaelsen@web.de