Body image is deeply connected to our sense of worth and safety, and for many survivors, trauma and eating disorders become intertwined as the body begins to feel like a battleground. Many people cope with traumatic memories and emotions by controlling food intake or focusing obsessively on their weight or shape. There is a well‑established relationship between trauma, post‑traumatic stress and eating disorders. A systematic review found that childhood abuse is associated with earlier onset and more severe eating disorder symptoms and that trauma and PTSD are linked to more severe pathology[14]. The severity of eating disorder symptoms increases with the number of traumatic events experienced[14]. Another study described anorexia nervosa as a coping mechanism for trauma, emphasizing the need for trauma‑informed care in eating disorder treatment[15].
How Trauma Manifests in Eating Behaviours
Trauma can disrupt the connection between body and mind. Survivors may struggle with sensations, appetite or hunger cues. These patterns are common in individuals experiencing the complex relationship between trauma and eating disorders, where emotional pain is expressed through food and the body. Controlling food intake may provide a sense of safety or punishment. Body dysmorphia—a distorted perception of one’s body—often emerges after sexual abuse or bullying. Trauma can also lead to binge eating, purging or compulsive exercise as ways to regulate overwhelming emotions or numb dissociation.
Recognizing the Signs
If you or a loved one has experienced trauma, watch for:
- Restrictive eating or extreme dieting
- Binge–purge cycles
- Obsession with weight, shape or exercise
- Avoiding social meals or eating alone
- Feeling disconnected from the body or numb during meals
Healing Approaches
- Trauma‑informed therapy (EMDR and TF‑CBT). Processing traumatic memories can reduce the need to control food, which is why EMDR is often a core component of treating trauma and eating disorders. EMDR helps clients shift negative beliefs about themselves (“I’m unworthy”) and release the shame that fuels eating disorders.
- Somatic therapies. Body‑oriented practices like gentle movement, yoga, or somatic experiencing help reconnect survivors with their bodies and heal the nervous system. Somatic Experiencing aims to treat PTSD by changing body sensations; initial evidence shows positive effects on PTSD symptoms and improvements in affective and somatic symptoms[16].
- Nutritional rehabilitation and medical care. Working with a dietitian familiar with eating disorders ensures safe refeeding and nutritional balance. For clients with severe eating disorders, a higher level of care may be necessary.
- Mindfulness and self‑compassion. Mindfulness practices teach non‑judgmental awareness of sensations and emotions, helping clients respond to triggers without resorting to disordered eating. Self‑compassion counters the inner critic that drives perfectionism.
- Support groups and family therapy. Eating disorders often thrive in secrecy. Community support reduces isolation and provides accountability. Family therapy can help loved ones understand trauma triggers and support recovery.
Body Positivity and Empowerment
In healing from trauma, body image, and eating disorders, clients benefit from shifting their focus toward body functionality rather than appearance. It requires redefining body image and self-worth and encouraging affirmations that focus on body functionality rather than appearance: “My legs help me dance” instead of “My thighs are too big.” Explore clothing that feels comfortable and expressive. Engage in activities that bring joy—dance, art, hiking—without tying them to calories burned. Follow diverse social media accounts that celebrate body diversity.
Conclusion
Trauma and eating disorders are intimately linked, but recovery is possible. By addressing the underlying trauma, reconnecting with the body and cultivating self‑compassion, survivors can move toward a healthier relationship with food and themselves. At Elnita Ottey & Associates, therapists provide trauma‑informed care that honours each client’s story and supports holistic healing.
💡 Healing from trauma and eating disorders is possible—with the right support. Elnita Ottey & Associates provides trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and holistic care to help clients reconnect with their bodies, reduce shame, and move toward lasting recovery.
📍 In-person sessions available in Monroe, NC and the Charlotte Metro area.
🌐 Virtual sessions offered in NC, SC, TN, OK, CO,OR, and VT.
➡️ Learn more at www.elnitaottey.com or find a certified EMDR therapist at www.emdria.org.
