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 Faculty, which is committed to intersectional feminism against sexism and all forms of discrimination.

After spending the morning at Falckenstein Beach 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, the history, and the motivation behind my book. Subsequently, I 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 key topics.

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 – sometimes up to 45 minutes. What would normally be a more open Q&A and discussion round this time developed into a smaller circle, which made it all the more personal. It was precisely this intensive exchange that 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 was also characterized 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 feel free to send me an email at info.johannaelsen@web.de