Meaning: This quote refers to Princess Diana's struggle with bulimia and the concern her friends had about the potential for a relapse. It also touches upon the role of the media in providing her with a degree of breathing space in dealing with her personal challenges. The quote is attributed to Anthony Holden, a journalist and author who has written extensively on a wide range of topics, including biographies and social issues.

Princess Diana openly spoke about her battle with bulimia, a serious eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by purging, typically through self-induced vomiting or the misuse of laxatives. Her struggles with the disorder were well-documented, and she was known for her efforts to raise awareness about mental health issues, including eating disorders. In the quote, it is suggested that her friends were concerned about the potential for a recurrence of her bulimia and other psychological challenges.

The concern expressed by her friends reflects the lasting impact that eating disorders can have on individuals, even after they have received treatment and support. It also highlights the importance of ongoing care and vigilance in managing such conditions. Bulimia, like other eating disorders, can be complex and deeply ingrained, often requiring long-term management and support.

The reference to the media providing Princess Diana with "breathing space" alludes to the public scrutiny and pressure she faced throughout her life. As a prominent figure in the public eye, she was constantly under intense media scrutiny, which undoubtedly added to the challenges she faced. The media's portrayal of her personal struggles, including her battle with bulimia, could have exacerbated her difficulties and added to the stress she experienced.

In recent years, there has been growing awareness of the impact of media coverage on individuals' mental health, particularly with regard to public figures. The quote suggests that, in this instance, the media may have contributed to alleviating some of the pressure on Princess Diana, allowing her the space to address her personal challenges more privately.

Anthony Holden's background as a journalist and author lends credibility to the quote, as he would likely have had insights into the media's treatment of Princess Diana and the public's perception of her struggles. His observation that the media provided her with a degree of respite sheds light on the complex dynamics between public figures, the media, and the portrayal of mental health issues.

Overall, the quote encapsulates the ongoing challenges faced by individuals dealing with eating disorders and mental health issues, particularly in the context of public visibility. It also underscores the nuanced relationship between public figures, the media, and the management of personal struggles. Princess Diana's openness about her experiences with bulimia and her efforts to destigmatize mental health issues have left a lasting legacy, contributing to greater awareness and understanding of these issues in society.