This is an interesting one. I first heard of the concept of "Ed" after reading Jenni Schaefer's "Life Without Ed" and "Goodbye Ed, Hello Me". I love her concept of referring to her eating disorder as an abusive partner, and I can definitely relate to that.

I, however, don't exactly "hear" a voice in my head. Although I sometimes refer to my eating disorder as "ED", that's basically just shorthand. For me, the negative thoughts and feelings about food and weight are more inner sensations rather than a voice telling me "you're fat!" or "don't eat!".

I have those negative feelings associated with food sometimes, but they are just that--feelings, not "voices".

I completely respect those out there who have "nicknamed" their eating disorders and who like to "talk back" to them. If that helps you, absolutely do it!

Sometimes I'll yell at "Ed" and say "shut up", but for me it is more than just a "voice" in my head--it is a sensation inside my body. I don't have someone "telling" me I'm fat--instead, sometimes I honestly FEEL bigger than I am.

Hope that made sense in some way and that you all don't think I'm crazy!