Perfectionism, while not always stemming from trauma, involves a persistent state of stress and heightened alertness that can dysregulate the nervous system in a way similar to traumatic stress.

Social media influencers have emerged as influential figures in modern society, wielding considerable sway over their vast audiences. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have provided these individuals with unprecedented reach. This allows them to shape trends and societal perceptions, particularly concerning body image and eating disorders.

In today's digital landscape, platforms like TikTok have become a pervasive part of young people's lives, offering a blend of entertainment, creativity, and social interaction. Yet, alongside its benefits, concerns have emerged about how these platforms impact children and adolescents, particularly in terms of body image and eating behaviors. As parents, it's crucial to grasp the influence of social media on our children's mental health.

Growing up with a caregiver who abuses substances is traumatizing for many.

It’s important to note that two individuals who experience the same trauma may be impacted very differently depending on many different factors.

Individuals in this population may identify as Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACoA’s or ACA’s).

In today's digital age, social media has become a ubiquitous part of our daily lives. From scrolling through Instagram feeds to watching TikTok videos, we're constantly bombarded with images and messages that shape our perceptions. While social media can be a source of inspiration and connection, it can also have a darker side, especially when it comes to body image and eating disorders.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop in individuals who have experienced or observed a distressing incident, sequence of incidents, or specific situations.

Trauma is anything that is too much too soon, too much for too long or too little for too long.

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. It’s where we connect with friends and family, share moments and memories, and stay updated on current events. However, social media also plays a major role in influencing our eating habits

Body shame triggers are absolutely everywhere.

Diet culture is real. Anti-fat bias is real.

Wherever we turn, it’s likely that we are going to bump into something, someone, or some place that triggers our body shame. 

Navigating the world of fashion can be a daunting task, especially if you're struggling with body image.

For many people, the reality is that retail stores don't have clothing options that will fit their body.

For others, even the thought of facing racks of clothing, dressing room lighting and full length mirrors is enough to scrap the idea of purchasing new clothes to begin with.

We go to the doctor’s office in search of healing, but for many of us these encounters can be sources of distress.

We may have suffered a lifetime of anti-fat bias and carry blame and shame. Past traumatic events may be retriggered by medical appointments.

I have a chaotic relationship with social media. It’s an on-again, off-again relationship. 

On the one hand, I’m grateful.

I am grateful for the ways in which it keeps me connected to loved ones when I’m not able to be with them physically.

EMDR works by leveraging the brain's natural ability to process and integrate traumatic memories. When someone experiences a traumatic event, the memory of that event can become "stuck". This often causes nervous system dysregulation and ongoing distressing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety.

Eating disorders can manifest in a number of ways. 

In last week’s podcast episode, Medical Care and Eating Disorder Recovery, Sarah and anti-diet dietitian, Rachel Shifflet spoke about atypical anorexia. As Rachel put it, “...it’s anorexia with a side of weight stigma” 

Relationships can be challenging for folks with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Complex PTSD).

Past trauma can greatly affect your emotions and relationships, making them challenging and feel unsafe at times.

The new year has always been my favorite holiday. In some ways it continues to be, but for much different reasons than in the past.

Now, I find comfort in the idea that the new year brings a calm time after the busy holiday season.

As 2024 approaches, many look forward to ringing in the new year with a sense of joy and excitement. 

But for many of us, New Year’s tidings come with a hefty dose of shame. 

Through the process of recovering from an eating disorder or compulsive exercise, we learn to reconnect with the depths of our human emotional experience without fear that once led to symptom use. We see food no longer as the enemy, but as a source of nourishment and enjoyment.

Growing up with dysfunctional family dynamics isn’t easy, to say the least. And, it can impact many different areas of your life.

Dysfunctional family dynamics refer to patterns of interaction, communication, and behavior within a family unit that are unhealthy and destructive to the family unit.

Many people see the holiday season as a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness.

However, for many, it can be a poignant reminder of loss, unmet expectations, and the absence of loved ones. Read on for 8 ways to cope with grief.

People-pleasing behaviors can often stem from emotionally overwhelming experiences, or trauma.

To stop trying to please everyone, it's important to understand people pleasing from a nervous system perspective.

Let's explore how the nervous system affects our stress, social interactions, and desire for connection.