Link Between PTSD and Eating Disorders: An Exploration | Psych Central
In the psychological field, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a relatively new and less recognized concept. This condition, often the result of a prolonged series of abusive events, typically during childhood at the hands of a parent or stepparent, is gaining more attention due to its significant impact on individuals and its connection to eating disorders.
People suffering from C-PTSD are often resistant to the idea that their problems are related to childhood trauma. This resistance can make it challenging for therapists to identify and address the root causes of their clients' issues. Victims of C-PTSD may show symptoms such as prolonged anxiety and depression, often associated with personality disorders and especially bipolar disorder.
One of the key challenges in diagnosing C-PTSD is the absence of clear memories of traumatic events. Victims may have gaps in their memory related to their childhood, which can make it difficult for them to link their problems to their past. Therapists should be alert to the absence of memories or an unexplained reluctance in therapy clients to discuss their childhood.
In therapy, people with C-PTSD may not report or be aware of traumatic memories. Instead, they may move from therapy for one symptom or syndrome to another before any link is suggested to their childhood. The discovery of C-PTSD necessitates a rethink and modification of the way psychotherapy is conducted today, focusing on the exploration of the past rather than just the 'here and now'.
The sexual abusive nature of many C-PTSD cases is a further risk factor for eating disorders. Survivors of traumatic events often lurch from one form of self-medicating behaviour to another, including eating disorders. Therapists who are meeting a new client with eating disorders should be on the lookout for signs of C-PTSD.
People with C-PTSD often have a negative self-image and an inability to cope with strong feelings of anger or sadness. The act of consciously starving oneself or engaging in purging in order to change one's body shape is a method used by victims to reassert control over their bodies.
The correlation between PTSD and eating disorders is well established. However, the emergence of C-PTSD as a distinct disorder adds a new layer of complexity to this relationship. People with C-PTSD almost always have difficulties forming relationships. This further exacerbates their feelings of isolation and leads to a vicious cycle of self-destructive behaviour.
In conclusion, the discovery of C-PTSD highlights the importance of exploring the past in therapy, even when clients may resist or be unaware of traumatic memories. Therapists and clinicians specializing in eating disorders must pay special attention to signs of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) because patients with C-PTSD often do not recall traumatic past events clearly and may show missing memories or unexplained resistance when discussing their childhood. By recognizing and addressing C-PTSD, we can help break the cycle of self-destructive behaviour and provide victims with the support they need to heal.
