Navigating Trauma: Challenges and Solutions for Eating Disorder Recovery
One of the most common contributors to the onset of disordered eating is a history of trauma.
Learn about evidence-based trauma treatments.
Trauma is a deeply distressing experience that can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Whether it stems from a single traumatic event or repeated exposure to distressing situations, trauma presents unique challenges that require understanding, support, and specialized interventions. In this blog post, we will explore the various challenges faced by individuals who have experienced trauma and shed light on the path towards healing.
The Complexity of Traumatic Memories
One of the significant challenges of trauma is the way it imprints itself on an individual’s memory. Traumatic memories are often fragmented, vivid, and intrusive. Flashbacks and nightmares can transport survivors back to the original event, overwhelming them with intense emotions and physical sensations. The complexity of traumatic memories can make it difficult for individuals to make sense of their experiences and may lead to feelings of confusion and self-blame.
Emotional Dysregulation
Trauma disrupts the normal functioning of the nervous system, leading to emotional dysregulation. Individuals may experience heightened levels of anxiety, anger, or sadness, or they may dissociate and feel emotionally numb. Managing these intense emotions can be overwhelming, often resulting in challenges with relationships, work, and daily life. Learning healthy coping strategies and emotion regulation techniques is critical in the healing process.
Hyperarousal and Hypervigilance
A common challenge for trauma survivors is the persistent state of hyperarousal and hypervigilance. They may constantly feel on edge, easily startled, and find it difficult to relax or feel safe. This heightened state of alertness can exhaust individuals mentally and physically, impacting their quality of life and ability to trust others.
Social Isolation and Alienation
Trauma can lead to social isolation as individuals struggle with feelings of shame, guilt, or fear of being judged. They may withdraw from social activities and relationships, finding it challenging to connect with others or trust new people. The resulting sense of alienation can intensify feelings of loneliness and further hinder the healing process.
Physical Symptoms and Health Consequences
Trauma can manifest in physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive issues, chronic pain, and sleep disturbances. The constant wear and tear on the body’s stress response system can also lead to long-term health consequences, including cardiovascular problems, weakened immune function, and increased susceptibility to illnesses.
Triggers and Avoidance Behaviors
Traumatic experiences often leave individuals with triggers—people, places, or situations that remind them of the trauma and evoke distressing reactions. To avoid these triggers and the associated emotional pain, individuals may develop avoidance behaviors. While avoidance temporarily provides relief, it can reinforce fear and limit engagement with life’s opportunities and joys.
Trauma and Eating Disorders
One of the most common contributors to the onset of disordered eating is a history of trauma.
In a study conducted by clinical psychiatrists, PTSD symptoms were present in 23.1% of people with anorexia nervosa and 25.6% of people with bulimia nervosa. Behaviors like food restriction, binge eating and purging can serve as methods of coping with – and avoiding – painful feelings and memories. The existence of untreated trauma is a common barrier to long-term recovery from eating disorders. Effective eating disorder treatment for trauma survivors requires a holistic approach with a focus on:
identifying traumatic experiences
understanding the impact of trauma on one’s emotions, behaviors, and relationships
gently processing the trauma to restore a sense of safety and calm
supporting the development of health-enhancing coping
The Evidence-Base: Proven Trauma Treatments
The American Psychological Association (APA) and the Veterans Health Administration and Department of Defense (VA/DoD) each published guidelines for the treatment of PTSD. These guidelines offer clear recommendations for providers to support responsible care and the best outcomes for their patients. Both organizations identify Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as the first line treatments for PTSD.
Prolonged Exposure
Prolonged Exposure is typically completed within 8–15 sessions. PE incorporates psychoeducation about trauma, breathe training and two kinds of exposures: in vivo exposure and imaginal exposure. In vivo exposure supports patients in approaching places, people or situations that they have been avoiding due to trauma-related fear. With repeated exposure, associated distress levels decrease. Imaginal exposure involve approaching thoughts, memories, and emotions relating to the traumatic event that the client has been avoiding. Patients share the narrative of the traumatic event repeatedly, creating a recording that they will listen to as an exposure exercise between sessions. The patient and therapist process the emotions that come up during these exposures.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
CPT typically lasts for 12 sessions. The treatment helps patients identify, analyze, and change harmful trauma-related beliefs. Reframing the traumatic incident or incidents decreases their power and long-lasting detrimental impact on present-day life.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a well-studied and validated approach primarily for use with children, adolescents, and their families. TF-CBT blends cognitive-behavioral therapy and stress management techniques over the course of 12-25 sessions. The treatment helps children heal from the negative effects of trauma by processing traumatic memories, changing problematic thoughts and behaviors, and building more effective coping and interpersonal skills. Although Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy was developed initially for children and teens, evidence suggests that TF-CBT may be effective in adult populations as well.
Overcoming Trauma: The Path to Healing
Seek Professional Support: Trauma therapy provided by experienced professionals can provide a safe and supportive environment to explore and process traumatic experiences. As discussed, there are a range of evidence-based treatments available for individuals of all ages.
Build a Support Network: Connecting with others who have experienced trauma or participating in support groups can offer a sense of belonging and understanding. Sharing experiences, receiving empathy, and learning from others’ journeys can be immensely healing.
Develop Coping Strategies: Learning healthy coping strategies such as deep breathing, grounding exercises, mindfulness, and self-care activities can help regulate emotions and manage triggers. Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and self-expression, such as art, music, or physical exercise, can also contribute to healing.
Practice Self-Compassion: Trauma often leaves individuals with feelings of self-blame and shame. Practicing self-compassion involves cultivating a kind and understanding attitude towards oneself, acknowledging that healing takes time and effort.
Embrace Resilience: Recognize and celebrate your resilience. Trauma survivors are incredibly resilient individuals who have endured and survived challenging circumstances. Embracing your inner strength can foster a sense of empowerment and inspire hope for the future.
The challenges posed by trauma are significant, affecting various aspects of an individual’s life. However, it is essential to remember that healing and resilience are attainable. By seeking professional support, building a supportive network, developing coping strategies, and practicing self-compassion, individuals can navigate the challenges of trauma and embark on a transformative journey of healing, growth, and reclaiming their lives.
