Treatment Trauma: What is it & How to Address it

 

Written by Emily Costa

While those seeking treatment deserve judgment free and safe treatment, unfortunately some have painful or upsetting experiences in the healthcare space. Treatment trauma refers to the negative experiences individuals may face while seeking care for their eating disorder. This blog aims to explore the causes and effects of such trauma, highlighting the importance of compassionate, respectful treatment and providing strategies to help individuals navigate their recovery journey effectively.

Read on to learn more about:

  • What trauma is 

  • What trauma can offer in the context of eating disorder treatment 

  • The role of weight stigma in traumatic experiences 

  • Common examples of trauma treatment for those experiencing an eating disorder

  • The impact of trauma in the cycle of disordered eating 

  • Why treatment trauma can be specifically challenging 

  • Signs and symptoms of trauma

  • What trauma-informed care is 

  • Types of therapy to heal from trauma 

  • A guide to finding a safe treatment provider 

What is trauma? What are traumatic experiences?

Trauma refers to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that profoundly affects an individual's emotional and psychological well-being. Traumatic experiences can encompass a wide range of events, including physical or emotional abuse, accidents, medical emergencies, or the loss of a loved one. These incidents can leave lasting scars, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships.

Traumatic experiences can erode an individual's sense of safety in their environment, fostering a lingering feeling that harm may occur at any moment. Often, individuals find themselves ruminating on these events, repeatedly revisiting the memories and thoughts associated with what transpired. This can lead to alterations in brain function, resulting in an increased sensitivity to perceived threats.

What is trauma in the context of eating disorder treatment and medical trauma? 

In the context of eating disorder treatment, trauma can manifest in various ways, deeply influencing an individual's relationship with food and body image. Patients may encounter medical trauma during their treatment journey, which can occur due to harsh clinical environments, invasive procedures, or encounters with healthcare professionals who lack sensitivity towards their struggles.

Such experiences can exacerbate feelings of shame, fear, and helplessness, creating significant barriers to recovery. When individuals face trauma related to previous treatment experiences, they may develop trust issues, making it challenging to engage fully in therapeutic processes. Recognizing and addressing these traumas is essential for developing effective treatment plans that foster a safe and supportive environment conducive to healing.

Weight Stigma, Medical Trauma & Its Impact on Individuals in Larger Bodies

Weight stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and actions directed at individuals based on their body size or weight. This stigma and fatphobia can manifest in various forms, including derogatory comments, social exclusion, and biased treatment in healthcare settings. This societal prejudice can significantly impact mental health, leading to feelings of shame, low self-esteem, and social isolation.

For those seeking eating disorder treatment in larger bodies, weight stigma can exacerbate the experience of medical trauma. Often, individuals may encounter healthcare environments that prioritize weight loss over their overall health, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

Instances of being dismissed, ridiculed, or experiencing biased treatment can create a sense of disempowerment and mistrust towards healthcare providers. As a result, patients may avoid necessary medical care or feel anxious about seeking treatment, fearing judgment or further stigmatization.

Common Examples of Treatment Trauma in Eating Disorder Recovery 

Understanding the various forms of treatment trauma is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers involved in the recovery process for eating disorders. Treatment trauma can stem from experiences within clinical settings, often leaving individuals feeling vulnerable, judged, or invalidated. Recognizing these experiences can help create a more supportive and understanding treatment environment that prioritizes healing over stigma. Below are some common examples of treatment trauma that those in eating disorder recovery may face:

  • Dismissing Concerns Based on Body Size: Patients may encounter healthcare professionals who prioritize weight loss over holistic health, leading to feelings of disempowerment.

  • Being Discharged from Treatment Early: Premature discharge can leave individuals feeling abandoned and unsupported, hindering their recovery journey.

  • Hospitalizations and Involuntary Psychiatric Stays: These experiences can evoke feelings of fear and distrust, particularly if the environments are perceived as harsh or neglectful of emotional needs.

  • Rapid Weight Gain: Sudden changes in weight, whether intentional or not, can trigger anxiety and shame, leading to further complications in recovery.

  • Tube Feeding: For some, the use of tube feeding can feel invasive or humiliating, leading to increased trauma and distrust in medical procedures.

  • Strict Rules and Lack of Privacy: A lack of personal autonomy and rigid treatment regimes can create a sense of powerlessness, further complicating the healing process. 

  • Invasive Medical Assessments: Repeated physical examinations or procedures that feel intrusive can heighten feelings of vulnerability and trauma, especially when these assessments are not conducted with sensitivity towards the patient's emotional state.

  • Negative or Judgmental Remarks by Staff: Comments made by healthcare professionals, whether intentional or not, can reinforce feelings of shame and inadequacy, making it challenging for individuals to engage in the recovery process.

  • Lack of Personalization in Treatment Plans: When treatment approaches do not consider the individual's unique experiences or needs, it can lead to frustration and a sense of alienation, leaving patients feeling unheard and unsupported.

  • Failure to Acknowledge Psychological Distress: If mental health concerns are overlooked in favor of solely addressing physical health, it can result in patients feeling dismissed and exacerbate their emotional struggles.

  • Being Kicked Out of Treatment: Experiencing expulsion from treatment can undermine an individual's sense of security and support, leading to feelings of rejection and unworthiness that can hinder recovery progress. Granted sometimes this needs to be done in order to preserve the safety of the patient or other patients, but this does not negate negative feelings or trauma that can result from this process.

  • Being Misdiagnosed: Incorrect diagnoses can not only complicate treatment strategies but also create confusion and frustration for patients, who may feel their true struggles are not being adequately addressed, leading to further psychological distress.

The Impact and Significance of Trauma for Those in Recovery

One significant impact of trauma is the increased risk of relapse for those in recovery from an eating disorder. When individuals are reminded of traumatic experiences, it can trigger overwhelming emotions that lead them to revert to disordered eating behaviors as a coping mechanism. This cyclical pattern not only hinders recovery but may also perpetuate a sense of failure and hopelessness.

Moreover, trauma can create substantial barriers to seeking help. The fear of re-experiencing trauma in treatment environments can deter individuals from accessing care. For many, the vulnerability inherent in sharing their experiences with healthcare providers is daunting, leading to avoidance of seeking necessary medical attention.

How Treatment Trauma Can be Even More Damaging than Other Types of Trauma

Treatment trauma can be particularly damaging as it often occurs within environments that are expected to provide support and care, intensifying feelings of betrayal and disempowerment. Unlike other types of trauma, which may arise from external circumstances, treatment trauma is intertwined with the intimacy of the healthcare relationship, leaving individuals feeling invalidated by those who should be their advocates. This can create a profound sense of mistrust not only in medical professionals but also in the very process of seeking help.

Signs and Symptoms of Trauma in Individuals with Eating Disorders

Identifying the signs and symptoms of trauma is essential for providing the appropriate support and care for individuals recovering from eating disorders. Trauma can manifest in various ways, affecting emotional, psychological, and physical well-being. Below are some of the common signs and symptoms that may indicate the presence of trauma:

Emotional Symptoms

  • Intense Feelings of Shame or Guilt: Individuals may experience overwhelming emotions that can hinder their self-esteem and recovery efforts.

  • Heightened Anxiety and Fear: Constant feelings of anxiety can arise, especially in situations reminiscent of past trauma.

  • Mood Swings: Individuals may experience unpredictable emotional changes, making it difficult to maintain stable relationships.

  • Dissociation: A detachment from reality or oneself, often resulting in feelings of numbness or disconnection from thoughts and emotions.

Psychological Symptoms

  • Intrusive Thoughts or Memories: Individuals may have recurring, distressing memories of the traumatic events that disrupt daily functioning.

  • Hyper-vigilance: Being excessively alert and on edge can make it challenging for individuals to relax or feel safe.

  • Depression: Signs may include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, or feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.

  • Difficulty Trusting Others: A pervasive skepticism towards relationships and a lack of belief in others' intentions can hinder social interactions.

Physical Symptoms

  • Changes in Appetite: Experiencing fluctuations in hunger or interest in food can reflect underlying emotional turmoil.

  • Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, nightmares, or extreme fatigue may result from constant mental strain related to trauma.

  • Somatic Complaints: Physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained pains, often have psychological origins.

  • Increased Startle Response: Individuals may be easily startled or react strongly to minor stimuli, indicating heightened anxiety.

Understanding these signs and symptoms can help in creating a more empathetic and supportive environment for individuals facing the complexities of trauma in their recovery journey from eating disorders. Addressing these issues with care and sensitivity can significantly impact their overall healing process.

Importance of Acknowledging and Validating Feelings of Trauma

Acknowledging and validating feelings of trauma is crucial for individuals in recovery, as it fosters a sense of empowerment. Recognizing that these feelings are valid allows individuals to process their experiences without shame or self-blame. It is essential to understand that trauma is not a reflection of one's worth or character; it is a response to overwhelming circumstances beyond personal control. Healing starts with compassion and understanding.

What is Trauma-Informed Care in the Context of Eating Disorders?

Trauma-informed care (TIC) is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and integrates this understanding into the treatment of individuals with eating disorders. Trauma-informed care is not a specific treatment modality for addressing trauma itself; instead, it shapes how clinicians provide care. This approach emphasizes understanding the effects of trauma on patients and integrates this awareness into all aspects of treatment.

In a trauma-informed framework, the care environment prioritizes safety, trustworthiness, and collaboration. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychological and emotional effects of trauma, allowing healthcare providers to tailor their interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Types of Therapy Used in Treatment for Healing Trauma

In treatment centers, various therapeutic approaches can be employed to help individuals heal from trauma, particularly as they navigate the complexities of eating disorders. These therapies not only address the symptoms related to the disordered behaviors but also focus on processing traumatic experiences in a supportive environment. The following are some types of therapy commonly used:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Helps individuals identify and reframe negative thought patterns

  • Provides tools to manage emotions and develop healthier coping strategies

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

  • Focuses on processing and integrating traumatic memories

  • Uses bilateral stimulation to enhance the brain's ability to heal from trauma

3.  Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • A form of cognitive-behavioral therapy that emphasizes emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness

  • Teaches skills to cope with distress and improve relationships

4. Mindfulness-Based Therapies

  • Encourages being present in the moment and developing a non-judgmental awareness

  • Can improve emotional regulation and decrease anxiety

6. Group Therapy

  • Provides a supportive community of peers who share similar experiences

  • Allows for shared healing and the development of social skills

7. Art and Expressive Therapies

  • Utilizes creative methods to facilitate expression and processing of emotions

  • Can serve as a non-verbal outlet for individuals struggling to articulate their experiences

By implementing a combination of these therapies, treatment centers can create a comprehensive approach that nurtures healing and personal growth while ensuring a safe, understanding environment for individuals recovering from trauma.

Related: The Role of Therapists & Dietitians in Eating Disorder Recovery

Finding a Safe Treatment Provider and Advocating for Yourself or Loved One 

When seeking treatment for eating disorders and addressing underlying trauma, it is crucial to find a provider or treatment center that prioritizes the principles of trauma-informed care.

Here are a few ways to ensure you feel comfortable with your choice:

  • Schedule a Consultation Call: Take advantage of the opportunity to have a preliminary conversation with the provider or a representative from the treatment center you are interested in. This will allow you to gauge their approach and assess whether their communication style or treatment approach resonates with you.

  • Ask Targeted Questions: Prepare a list of questions that address your specific struggles and concerns. Inquire about their experience in treating individuals with similar backgrounds and issues. Asking about their approach to trauma-informed care can also provide insight into how they prioritize your emotional safety.

  • Discuss Your Expectations: Clearly communicate what you hope to achieve through treatment. Sharing your goals can help the provider tailor their approach to suit your unique needs, fostering a sense of collaboration.

  • Evaluate the Environment: If possible, visit the center beforehand to get a feel for the atmosphere. Pay attention to the overall environment—does it feel welcoming and safe? Consider whether the staff interacts in a way that makes you feel respected and valued.

  • Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, trust your feelings during the interactions. If something feels off or if you have any reservations, it’s perfectly acceptable to continue searching until you find a provider or program that feels right for you.

With compassion and support, individuals can navigate their recovery journey from eating disorders while healing from past traumas.

Central Coast Treatment Center is dedicated to providing a compassionate and trauma-informed environment for individuals struggling with eating disorders and trauma. By integrating evidence-based therapies and fostering a supportive community, they empower clients to navigate their healing journey while ensuring that each person feels safe, understood, and valued throughout the process. Reach out to us today

 

Emily Costa

Having struggled with an eating disorder herself, Emily is passionate about spreading awareness, education and the possibility of recovery with others. Emily previously volunteered as a Crisis Text Line counselor and with the eating disorder non-profit Project HEAL where she served as their blog manager, their NYC Chapter Leader & a recovery mentor in their Communities of HEALing pilot program completing training by the Carolyn Costin Institute. Emily now enjoys working with various treatment centers, clinicians and non-profits in the eating disorder community providing marketing and design services. In her free time she enjoys spending time with friends, hanging with her dogs, and reading a book at the beach. 

 
 
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