85. When the Eating Disorder is the Armor: Trauma, Sexual Violence & Healing with Dr. Giulia Suro, PhD, CEDS

In this powerful episode, Allyson sits down with Dr. Giulia Suro, a clinical psychologist and Senior Director of Research at Monte Nido, a national eating disorder treatment company. Giulia shares recent findings from one of the largest naturalistic eating disorder research datasets in the country and what the data reveals about the undeniable link between sexual trauma and eating disorders. What We Cover Key findings: ~50% of adults and ~40% of adolescents entering eating disorder treatment meet active criteria for PTSD at admission Why sexual trauma is the most common traumatic experience in this population (60% of adults; 85% of those with PTSD) How eating disorders function as trauma responses including avoidance, numbing, dissociation and protection The bidirectional relationship between trauma and eating disorder symptoms What is included under sexual violence and how technology has made sexual violence more rampant Why simultaneous treatment of trauma and eating disorders is supported by the research and why waiting to process trauma until 'after' ED recovery is not always the best option Navigating OCD, intrusive thoughts and trauma Key Takeaways The eating disorder is often doing the job of trauma avoidance- you can't separate them in treatment Sexual trauma doesn't require a firm "no" - powerlessness, inequity and vulnerability create the conditions for harm and perpetration Self-blame after trauma is often an attempt to create predictability and prevent future harm Recovery is a feminist process: naming the systems that failed you can fuel healing As a provider, unless someone is actively suicidal with intent, plan and means, don't wait to start trauma work For trauma survivors, the worst day is already over, which is both a strength and source of grief. Resources & Links Giulia's website: www.giuliasuro.com Giulia's Instagram: @giuliasurrophd Allyson's Instagram: @bodyjustice.therapist Allyson's website: www.eatingdisorderocdtherapy.com Disclaimer The content of this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment or medical advice. Nothing discussed in this episode constitutes a therapeutic relationship between the hosts, guests, and listeners.